Orchid Talks
I give talks about orchid culture, with demonstrations using live plants and supplies. The talks are about 45 minutes each. I can also supply plants for the orchid opportunity table.
My most requested topics are:
Reading your roots: Examining the roots can reveal different aspects of culture and overall health of your orchid. This lecture focuses on how to use this information to understand the cultural requirementments, watering techniques, potting mixtures and repotting frequencies.
Orchids…Things I wish I had known in the beginning: This is a great program for people new to growing Orchids. I’ve written the 10 rules of thumb of basic Orchid care, and have great tips for watering.
The Zen of Orchids…Success and pleasure: Webster describes 'Zen' as enlightenment through introspection and intuition. I've found this to be a very rewarding method of growing and flowering orchids. I'll tell you how and why.
Orchid Biography for Newsletters and Webpages:
Napa Valley Orchids was started in March 2001 by third generation Napan Debra Atwood. In addition to growing a greenhouse full of beautiful orchids, primarily species, she also consults, is a regular speaker at orchid societies and garden clubs, and in addition, performs greenhouse maintenance for a handful of clients. She has also taught orchid classes for many years, and still conducts orchid workshops as time allows. Summers you will find her at the St. Helena farmers' market, and winter is show season, with 7 to 9 shows a year.
Currently Debra grows Angraecoids, species Phalaenopsis, Neofinetias, Maxillarias, and what ever else catches her fancy. Her greenhouse maintains an intermediate temperature range, and her plants thrive in the Mediterranean climate of Napa Valley. Her orchid nursery, Napa Valley Orchids, is open most days by appointment. Call 707-255-8266 or email napavalleyorchids@gmail.com. Her website is www.napavalleyorchids.com
