Orchid Festival 2011
October 1 - 8, 2011
Join us in celebrating the orchid, one of the most beautiful flowers in the world. Though the majority of these plants grow in the tropics, Shangri La's Epiphyte House features several spectacular varieties including some that grow wild in our natural environment. The Orchid Festival features guest speakers and other presenters to cultivate interest and educate the public about the orchid family.
All events are free for Shangri La members and are included in the general admission fee for non-members. Please RSVP at 409.670.9799 as space is limited at some events.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
9:30 a.m. - Saturday Adventure Series: All About Orchids
During this family program, learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about orchids. We will explore orchid anatomy, reproduction, and ecology as we focus on orchids native to Texas and growing in Shangri La.
11:00 a.m. - Easy Orchids and Their Growing Techniques for our Southern Climate.
Presented by Don Ghiz, accredited American Orchid Society Judge. Knowing the basic varieties and what care is needed to grow them in Southeast Texas is half the knowledge needed to be a successful orchid grower. Join Don Ghiz as he discusses various orchids that easily tolerate our climate. Ghiz will give information about potting, watering, fertilizing and pest control techniques that will satisfy the newly bitten orchid addicts thirst for basic knowledge.
3:00 p.m. - Orchid Festival Exhibition Greenhouses Tour
Join Jennifer Buckner, Horticulture Specialist in a guided tour through the Exhibition Greenhouses. Please RSVP at 409.670.9799, space is limited. See below for more information.
Exhibition Greenhouses Tours
Join Jennifer Buckner, Horticulture Specialist in a guided tour through the Exhibition Greenhouses. In celebration of the annual festival, special orchids will be on display. Exhibition Greenhouse Tours are free to the public. Please RSVP at 409.670.9799, space is limited. Tours meet at the admission window at scheduled times below.
Exhibition Greenhouses Tour Schedule:
Saturday, October 1 - 3:00 p.m
Tuesday, October 4 - 10:00 a.m.
Wednesday, October 5 - 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, October 6 - 10:00 a.m.
Friday, October 7 - 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m. Orchidelirium: Past and Present, Round table Discussion of the book The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean. A panel will lead discussion of this bestseller. Topics include connections between horticulture, protection of endangered species, economics, art, cultural history and social issues. Participants are encouraged to read the book in advance. Light refreshments. This event will be held at the Stark Museum of Art. Free.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
9:30 a.m. – Saturday Adventure Series: Orchids, Culture, & Customs
For centuries, Orchids have been adored and used by different cultures around the world. We will explore the many roles that orchids have played in different societies. This program features fun interactive games for the whole family!
11:00 a.m. – Jennifer Buckner, Horticulture Specialist presents Hardy Orchids for Your Garden.
Learn about the different varieties of hardy orchids and how to grow them in your garden and in containers.