Thursdays, 4/6-5/4/2023, 10:30am-1:00pm

Location: Ocean Campus, EH/F 1 

Instructor: Tom Perlite

Over the course of 5 weeks, we will learn the basic cultural requirements of a variety of orchid genera and species. The workshops will cover the optimum environmental conditions for growing a wide range of orchids, both indoors and outdoors, including light, temperature, and water. We will work with Cymbidium orchids, Phalaenopsis, Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, as well other species. We will be working with the plants in the extensive City College orchid collection, learning the proper techniques for watering, fertilizing, repotting, mounting, and preparing and staking orchid flower spikes. Workshops will be in person at the Floristry and Environmental Horticulture Department.

Students should bring a pair of stainless steel clippers. Clippers will be available to purchase from the department, if needed. All other materials needed for the workshop will be provided.

Instructor Bio:
Tom Perlite is the owner of Golden Gate Orchids in San Francisco and has been growing orchids for the past 45 years. After receiving a degree in Botany from U.C. Berkeley, Tom worked at the Rod McLellan Co., and subsequently started Golden Gate Orchids in 1981. In the past few years, Tom has downsized his nursery and is a part time instructor in the Environmental Horticulture program at City College. He is a retired American Orchid Society judge and known for his ability to grow a wide range of orchids.

Image credit: Tom Perlite