Conservation & Education

The Coalition for Orchid Species is a non-profit society whose members are dedicated to the enjoyment, cultivation, and conservation of species orchids.  We have an active conservation and education component, and we maintain an extensive circulating library to facilitate the identification and study of orchid species.

EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR 2010

COS presents ORCHID CLASSES taught by various member-experts, held 30 minutes prior to the general meeting each month.  Everyone attending this program will receive a display-quality Certificate of Attendance from the Coalition for Orchid Species.  This year, the following topics will be covered:

Introduction to Orchid Growing

Cattleyas

Dendrobiums

Phalaenopsis

Vandas

Potting, Basketing, and Mounting

Orchid Pests and Diseases - treatments and prevention

 CONSERVATION PROGRAM

The Conservation Committee of the Coalition has a program in conjunction with Miami-Dade County to conserve and replace native Florida orchids that have become scarce or non-existent in their natural habitats. Our activities include rescuing native orchids from areas soon to be developed, as well as replacing orchids that have been stolen from park areas. We strive to educate the public not only to recognize and care for our own native orchid species, but to understand individual habitats and how these orchids survive within South Florida’s various ecosystems.

The Coalition maintains a small group of native orchids in private shadehouses to use as stud plants. We are growing our first crop of seedling Encyclia tampensis,  to be distributed when they reach appropriate size. E. tampensis is a common native orchid once found in abundance in Dade County. Our stock will not only provide mature plants for re-attachment to oak, pine and other native trees, but will provide seed stock for ongoing maintenance of the COS conservation program.

Our work requires that the plants are cared for and monitored regularly, so there is always room for more volunteers!  We also hope to partner with other related organizations in order  to expand public awareness and knowledge of our valuable native orchid resources.  Come to one of our meetings, and see how you can help!