Peninsula Orchid Society

Peninsula Orchid Society Speakers Schedule: July 25, 2008

The Zen of Orchids...Success and Pleasure

Debra Atwood

For the month of July, Debra Atwood will again visit the POS and present one of her very successful talks on: "The Zen of Orchids...Success and Pleasure".

Debra Atwood, a third generation Napa resident, is now in her seventh year as sole proprietor of Napa Valley Orchids. After 30 years in Napa's hospitality industry she needed to make a lifestyle change, so nearing 50, thought it was time to follow her heart and pursue her passion for orchids. "I think of myself more as a farmer than a florist, as things like water, weather, fertilizing and taking my beauties to market are always on my mind."

There are many fun and interesting orchids that grow and bloom well in her 22 X 24 foot greenhouse, such as Angraecum, Aerangis, Bulbophyllum, Cochleanthes, Encyclia, Phrags, Brassia, Maxillaria and Phalaenopsis species to name a few.

Teaching orchid classes and leading workshops, as well as speaking to orchid societies and selling plants at orchid shows and farmer's markets are just a few of the things she does in addition to greenhouse maintenance and consultation. Debra offers free consultation on any orchid you bring to her.

Her talk this month presents: "The Zen of Orchids...Success and Pleasure". Webster describes 'Zen' as enlightenment through introspection and intuition. She has found this to be a very rewarding method of growing and flowering orchids and so you will then also understand the how and why.

So, lets get into the mood and sit back and enjoy the ethereal existence of our orchid friends.

Debra will also be providing the opportunity table and will bring some plants and orchid supplies for sale as well.