Dr. Kristen Uthus studied plant and animal ecology and evolution at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Ohio State University (OSU). She then taught biology and ecology at several colleges, including VCU, OSU, University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University. The daughter of a plant fanatic, Kristen has been growing orchids for over 30 years, and in 2014 she fulfilled her dream of making orchids a full-time commitment by purchasing New World Orchids. Although she enjoys growing many varieties of orchids and other plants, miniatures remain her passion —- the weirder the better! New World Orchids specializes in Japanese species including Neofinetia falcata and Dendrobium moniliform, but her miniature selection includes many other small species, including Pleurothalids, Cattleyas, and Dendrobiums.

Most people are familiar with Phalaenopsis, aka “grocery store orchids”, but few know that is is just one of thousands of kinds of orchids. Orchids are found all over the world, but what makes them different from other flowers? In this talk, she will answer that question and discuss the basics of who orchids are, how diverse they are, and some of the points to consider when you are choosing who to grow and how to grow them.

6:30 p.m.  Membership Check-in - Meet and Greet

6:45 p.m.  MGWWC Announcements and Discussion

7:00 p.m.  Educational Presentation : This educational talk is provided to members by Zoom link which will be sent to you. Others can request link by contacting; https://www.mgwwc.com