How did a structural engineer from Florida become so enamored of his hobby that it turned into an avocation? Stewart Chipka learned about orchids from his grandfather and has been growing them since he was six years old. From Naples, Florida, Chipka will be our featured speaker at the April 12th meeting.

Come see and hear about Encyclias and what makes them unique as a genus. Stewart will discuss the origins of Encyclias and what caused them to be removed from the genus Epidendrum. Basic care and cultivation techniques with a demonstration on methods of mounting this species will be included. Stewart will have some orchids for sale – mostly Encyclias, but some others as well.

Stewart is a member of the American Botanical Society, American Orchid Society, and current president of the specialty orchid group, Encyclia Enthusiasts, Inc. This group was formed in May 2002 to educate the public about the genus Encyclia and to promote Encyclias, in their habitat and in culture.

This meeting is just a few days before our big spring show so we will have plenty to cover in addition to hearing Stewart speak on Encyclias. I know you’ll enjoy hearing him. He is as entertaining as he is informative.