TRANSCRIPT
PRACTICING CONSERVATION AT SHOWS
Moderator: Marilyn Light
Wed, 12 May 99
Neil24 (Neil - Israel)
Dig Orchids (Doug - Houston)
marylois (northwest Louisiana)
JCY8S (John in Arcadia, CA)
Jade from G R (Grand Rapids MI)
sparkysteve (of Boca Raton, Florida)
jim4eq (Jim - FL)
marilyninOttawa
djanvrin (David)
fancyfarmer (Mary Lou - FL)
johng in garland (Garland TX)
MiamiBert
reparata (agnes in australia)
Marc Goulding (CA)
AORCHID (art, simpsonville sc)
student681 (CT)
jolo2 (Joanna - Owen Sound, Ont]
marilyninOttawa
Good evening everyone.
Today we will be discussing shows and how we can practice conservation at shows, either as exhibitors, judges or vendors.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
Welcome, friend.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Cool, suggest a start point?
marilyninOttawa
I was wondering what if any anecdotes chatters might have to share?
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
May one ask the definition of show conservation?
marilyninOttawa
We could start with a discussion of show policy and procedures.
Jade from G R
Good idea. There seems to be quite a range from country to country.
jim4eq (Only 36 hours til redlands)
Do you mean not allowing collected plants to be entered?
marilyninOttawa
Practicing conservation at a show involves all aspects of plant care including that of plants exhibited and sold.
djanvrin
The only bug problem I've encountered showing plants is roaches from mall food courts - they seem to head right for the displays.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Ah, then policy point one could be to locate show as far from food court as possible...
MiamiBert
Nearest food court to Redlands Show is 4-5 miles away. Bugs would need radar.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
*LOL* How many bugs per square foot in Florida, Bert?
marilyninOttawa
Pests will vary by location but roaches can be every bit as destructive as slugs if allowed to propagate in your greenhouse. Any thoughts as to what to do to avoid the roach problem?
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Other than to exhibit plants, what is the primary purpose of a show?
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
I'd say that it is to offer an opportunity to learn about and purchase orchids...after all as you state, the prime purpose of exhibiting - which, to my way of thinking is to promulgate orchids as a viable hobby...and forge orchid friendships.
marilyninOttawa
Do you have any suggestions Doug? I consider shows as an opportunity to display what we love to grow, to entertain and to educate visitors and to display blooming versions of what is being offered for sale.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Besides sales and exhibits, shows function as a primary source to invite and obtain new society member candidates as well
fancyfarmer
I have always considered our shows as primarily educational for the public. If we just wanted to give awards and trophies we could do that at our meetings. Of course sales are the draw for commercial exhibits to make the shows gorgeous. The Redlands Festival does not have exhibits but draws huge crowds because of the ambiance of the Fruit and Spice Park and the wide variety of vendors. Miami people are plant nuts anyway!!
MiamiBert
We have lots of 'Palmetto' bugs, but they don't hang out at food courts.
fancyfarmer
We don't have roaches anymore thanks to the new baits with the jvenile hormone in them. They really work. In the shadehouse they must be protected from water but in the home they are perfect. They do work outside too.
djanvrin
I do know that a boric acid paste is very effective against roaches - mix flour, boric acid and a little sugar with water into a stiff paste, roll into little balls and allow to dry. Roaches will attempt to eat these and die shortly thereafter. Only thing is, you should protect the balls from water.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
But to look at plant conservation at a show in particular gets to the show's sponsor. Protection of plants on exhibit is a security function. To me, conservation entertains the concept of plant propagation, distribution, and enters the area of protection of the natural environs of the plants.
marilyninOttawa
If a show is primarily an educational opportunity then we should seize the opportunity to pass on the conservation message. What do you say regarding vendors that sell diseased or infested plants. I realize that you know what to look for and will not buy a diseased specimen but what about the
first time purchaser and potential new orchid hobbyist?
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
I justify my sherbet habit by the need for quart plastic cartons to place over roach bait.
MiamiBert
Once I pay good money for a plant at a show, I conserve the hell out of it later
djanvrin
I was surprised to recently find aphids on plants a reputable grower brought to a show - quite a lot of them and distributed throughout the plants he'd brought. I just could not imagine what he was thinking.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
I've known a vendor or two who was asked to leave because of diseased plants. And exhibit plants pulled.
Unfortunately, aphids can hatch out in a matter of a few hours - the plants likely looked good when he brought them. Surely he sprayed when noted?
One picks up critters when displaying with other plants!! Marilyn, they don't bring diseased plants back if they were sent home the first time.
jim4eq
Marilyn, we're lucky here in South Florida, if a vendor sold bad plants he wouldn't be back.
marilyninOttawa
I have found that more 'educated' the purchasing public, the less likely a vendor with diseased plants will generate sales.
Jade from G R
I think vendors who have a reputation for bringing plants to sell that are not pest and disease free shouldn't be invited back. For first time buyers a few bad plants can totally convince them that orchids are too hard to grow.
marilyninOttawa
Good points Jade.
Marc Goulding
Let the buyer beware! Its inherent of capitalism!
MiamiBert
De gustibus non disputandum, Jade.
marilyninOttawa
Many vendors bring blooming plants for first time buyers. These may be Cymbidiums, Miltoniopsis, Phals, etc. Usually there is no problem but sometimes the potting medium is on its last legs or stock is virused.
djanvrin
Are all incoming plant materials shipments (properly noted shipments) inspected? Or is done on a sampling basis now?
MiamiBert
I've been present at shipments I've imported. Everything thoroughly inspected, but they don't gas except for good reason. They are actually very courteous.
marilyninOttawa
Plants that have been inspected may still carry the odd spider mite, Boisduval Scale, etc. All it takes is one or two fertile individuals and the problem starts.
reparata
So far I've found mail order orchids are generally clean and pest free but small. I've had infested purchases from local nurseries and the worst from a member of my local orchid society! Local ones are so tempting - big plants, usually in flower.
fancyfarmer
One of the problems in today's orchid business is that the vendors just get in a load of plants from wholesalers wherever and they sell plants they did not themselves grow! Used to be everyone mostly had their own unique stock that was mostly crosses they made themselves. The plants I buy are in media that I cannot grow in so as soon as possible they are repotted in my airy treefern, redwood mix. Sometimes even then the roots die before I can get it done.
marylois
Quality of plants sold at a show is proportional to the number of backyard vendors participating. RARELY any problem with an established grower.
marilyninOttawa
Any chatter who shows orchids please respond. What is your routine after bringing a plant home from a show? Do you 1) isolate for several weeks; 2) spray with a pesticide and immediately place in the collection; 3) replace in the collection without any treatment; or 4) other? (A majority of respondents examine and isolate new additions to their collections. ML)
sparkysteve (of Boca Raton, Florida)
4) I do nothing
marylois
Inspect, isolate. Don't spray unless something shows up...I also try to repot IMMEDIATELY. Many plants are beginning to lose roots when purchased...vendors are for rapid growth, not lasting media.
djanvrin
True about the repotting, Marylois - I've found many plants for sale that were a bit past time to repot.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
I isolate plants for a week or two before placing in a green house. Also, often repot to check roots and replace media. Plants are thoroughly re-inspected at home. After having scale and mealies show up in two2 plants that I purchased, all plants get checked closely.
djanvrin
I typically isolate any plants purchased for 1-2 months, but do not routinely spray other than 1x spring when plants go outdoors and 1x fall when they come back in.
MiamiBert
Vendors can't make profit if they can only get novitiates to buy.
reparata
Marilyn, only showed once so far (won first price with Ascocenda Malibu Aristocrat in novice all other orchids category). I inspected the plant for any pests on coming home, wiped the leaves with a soft damp cloth. Had it separated from the rest of the collection.
marilyninOttawa
Right on, Doug. Mealy bugs can appear even after a prolonged isolation. One source can be the potting medium where 'nests' of mealybug juveniles shelter in amongst the bark chips. That is where repotting comes in handy as a pest control option.
jim4eq
marc, so is our current legal system. Florida has 'lemon litter' law that says if puppy gets sick or dies within 30 days of purchase, vendor must refund.
Marc Goulding
jim4eq, thanks for the info! In CA lemon law only covers vehicles!
marilyninOttawa
Jim. Does the same apply to orchids?
jim4eq
Marilyn, the proverbial home depot will replace for up to a year!
MiamiBert
Remember, plants imported by vendors have been thoroughly inspected by Agriculture agents.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Since most media from vendors/growers probably doesn't fit my watering schedules, most plants get repotted even if they've been recently repotted at vendor's shop. Besides, most mid-continental mixes turn to mush in Houston within weeks, due to our humidity levels.
Jade from G R
I give my new plants a thorough shower and magnified inspection and then try to keep them away from the others. I don't have a way to totally isolate them. The are watched carefully for the first few weeks. I don't use any pesticides just Sun Oil spray. That usually takes care of any scale creepers or aphids. Oh yes, I usually soak the pot in warm water for about 45 min to bring out any crawly or sluggy things that may be hiding there. It usually works.
marilyninOttawa
Keep following that procedure
zeynep3
Hi everybody, I usually treat my orchids after they have been at a show.
MiamiBert
I've bought as many as 25 plants at special shows like Redlands. The logistical problem of quarantine would be terrific.
marilyninOttawa
The logistical problem of dealing with an infestation brought into a collection would be also daunting.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Maybe because I move the plants out of GH and totally disinfect the place with fungicide, and bleach in water about twice a year may be the reason, but I've never had spider mites, false mites in my GH.
reparata
I have a Vanda Rothchildiana in flower. Was rained on for two nights while I tried to decide whether I should bring it in from the shed where it had been happy for seven months. Now there are small brown spots (constant in number and size). Are these contagious?
zeynep3
Ditto, Agnes
Lanceps
Hello all, I am not so careful about new plant care (except I always repot), since they go outdoors where all the pests are.
marilyninOttawa
Has anyone taken the drastic step of removing the inflorescence after the show is over? This is one way to ensure that any aphids that may have migrated to your flowers are removed with the blooms, especially with yellow-flowered orchids.
Jade from G R
A good suggestion Marilyn. I'll add it too our suggestion list for member displays.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
I ALWAYS take the flower spike off to transport home. Poor plant has been stressed enough! With exception of large plants holding up well. I figure if I got it there in bloom I've had my full share of luck as far as that blooming is concerned. *G*
djanvrin
I inspect my plants closely before placing them back with the others, but do not remove inflorescence. I've found that aphids and mealies are fairly easy to wipe out - it's scale that I'm really worried about.
reparata (agnes in australia autumn a.m. 20C)
Marilyn, I can't bear to cut off a flower until it starts to crinkle!
marilyninOttawa
Agnes. Thank you for bringing up the subject of purchases, etc from society members. When someone we know gives or sells us a diseased or infested plant, what should we do? Accidental oversight can happen but repeated incidents can cause the spread of virus or pests in member collections.
djanvrin
Marilyn and Agnes - I agree with the problem of plants acquired from society members - it can be very touchy approaching someone about a bug prob. esp if they've given you the plant. But they may simply not know how to deal with the problem.
fancyfarmer
One of the problems at the Miami show has always been the use of sand to build up the exhibits. I used to do a lot with society exhibits and we learned to use plastic baggie type things to enclose the pots so that salt in our sand wouldn't hurt the plants. Someone learned the hard way and spread the word. We are in the habit of covering up pots in the sand. A good thorough watering after the show is also good. (Orchids can be quite sensitive to sodium in sea salt. ML)
marylois (TOPIC: Prcticing Conservation at Show)
Ouch! Never thought of that, Mary Lou! [but I fear the Spanish moss used so prevalently in this area, not everyone pretreats it...mlg]
fancyfarmer
I'm not sure where the sand comes from these days!
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Shoot, if I cut the spikes off after displaying, I'd lose the joy of seeing the blooms for another month or two, and some paphs and phrags tend to be sequential, like my P. Pinocchio's. [It's really fun to snap off an inflorescense and watch the looks of surprise on faces of show visitors, replaced by glee when you give it to one of them...mlg]
marilyninOttawa
Agnes. Lois has very good advice! When orchids are displayed at a show, they are stressed from lack of humidity, too low or high a temperature and humidity shifts. It is really a good idea to remove an inflorescence after ashow You can display the cut spike in a vase. Meanwhile the plant will recover from its stress much more quickly and you are likely to have a
nice display of blooms the following season.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
Welllllllll, Doug - that would be one of my exceptions.
marilyninOttawa
Doug. Re: sequentially blooming spikes. We should note that such inflorescences are less likely to present a problem of transpiration loss through flowers than entire spikes of blooms open at once. As each sequentially presented flower lasts only a short time, there is less impact on the plant during the time that flower is open. Open blooms could, however, become infested with aphids at a show so it pays to play close attention to what is hiding in the bloom. You can remove one bloom and keep the inflorescence intact.
djanvrin
Botrytis fungi are plentiful in a home and yard environment - they need cool, wet and a host (such as a flower) to really multiply. Botrytis
typically only attacks the flowers - rarely the host plant.
zeynep3
Botrytis also needs dead flowers to be exact.
marylois
Ah, Zeynep - beautiful white phals - far from dead can be peppered with botrytis.
zeynep3
Lois, one of the best defense against Botrytis is good air circulation, keeping all your dead materials picked. I have been able to control it that way. ALSO, MOVE THE THERMOSTAT UP A LITTLE.
marylois
Right on, zeynep.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
We've had members who have sold flowering plants that have offered buyers total replacement after having a virus found in their specific plants. Even took effort to announce in newsletter. Good folks like that are perhaps rare. Botrytis is usually prevalent at end of winter, is it not? Before outside air warms up? [And Louisiana springs with wet days and cool nights...mlgl]
Jade from G R
Agnes, I have fans going constantly in my growing area ( under lights in my basement) and it seems to have almost totally eliminated the black stuff.
reparata
Just cool autumn Marilyn, 16-23C about 62-73F. This was only a one night society benching. Maybe when I'm into the real shows I'll be very stoic!
djanvrin
True - the only time I've seen botrytis is on flowers that were wet and cool overnight with no air movement. (Condensation on the flower surface when the air is still permits spores to germinate and fungal lesions to appear. ML)
Dig Orchids
I remove like 10,000 cfm of hot air out with big fan, plus have several circulating fans as well.
fancyfarmer
Well, that explains why I don't see botrytis! Never cool and lots of air!
I purchased a few old timey good Catts. from an older member but when I tested them they had cucumber mosaic virus. Haven't noticed that the flowers are affected but I grow them isolated from the rest of my collection. He had some great stuff and I am a fancier of old timers - maybe because I'm one myself now!
marilyninOttawa
Very interesting example, FancyFarmer.
Jade from G R
Even if someone gives you a plant it is just plain courtesy to let them know you have had a problem with certain pests. That gives the receiver the choice to keep or refuse. I received a darling Masd. with the warning it had had scale problems. Consequently, I kept it under close watch and 3 years later it is still pest free.
reparata
This society member and his wife are such nice people with such a delightful variety of plants. Perhaps they have so many they are oblivious to the rascals in their collections.
marylois
The statistics on virus in old plants ... and greenhouses per se ... is really daunting!
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Most of the members' GH I've visited have had little or no pests on their plants. A good knock-down spray of a little dishwashing soap in water, mixed with isopropyl alcohol cures scale problem on most plants. Includes spraying the roots if scale are suspected.
johng in garland
I have a C. warscewiczii coerulea 'Henena B. Ospina' in bud now that I suspect is virused...Last flowering showed some petal color break. I'm watching it for this yea's flowering, and if it shows the same stuff, I'll discard it.
fancyfarmer
Johng, why don't you just have it tested now? The color break can be from something other than virus.
marylois
Cheaper to bloom it a three-four times.
johng in garland
Where would I have that done?
marylois
Peters fertilizer does it...but doesn't Selby?
marilyninOttawa
You will find virus testing companies advertised in Orchids.
fancyfarmer
Well the virus doesn't show up at every blooming - so just a clean flower won't prove anything.
djanvrin
Lanceps - some plants cope very well with virus - but if it transfers to other more susceptible plants you could have a real prob. Also, as pointed out earlier, virus isn't the only source of color break.
marilyninOttawa
The only way you can tell if color break is virus related is to have a test done. In the meantime, I would isolate the plant just in case (and handle it last when examining your collection ML)
Lanceps
I have a much desired cross that I got blooming size from a very reputable nursery, 1st bloom was a perfectly shaped flower with lots of color break. I isolated it, its very vigorous, leaves look fine. Flower always has color break.
UncleEarl (Earl from Vacaville, CA)
Lanceps - there is a genetic defect in some orchids (yellow catts are a good example) in which there is a crippling which might easily be mistaken for a virus. That's why testing is the only sure way to know. Though have to warn you, negative results on a test *does not* necessarily mean the virus is not present, only that it wasn't found in the test.
reparata
I don't really know what a color break is. Sorry but I'm new to this. Sometimes I think I see a color break in an illustration but the caption says it is a desirable feature called suffusion (?). Vice versa also happens. *Sigh*
marilyninOttawa
Agnes. Color break is an irregular marking on a flower caused by infection by one or more viruses. It is often accompanied by a browning or necrosis of the affected area. Irregular markings unrelate d to virus infection appear in many orchids. Spotted Phals may have irregular red streaks where spots have run together. Complex Paphs may have linear streaks or even thickened ridges in the dorsal sepal. These symptoms are not necessarily of disease but disease could also be present. You can never know for
certain if a virus infection is present without a positive test.
AORCHID (art, simpsonville sc)
About how much does it cost to have virus test done?
marilyninOttawa
Virus tests vary in cost according to the number of tests ordered and which tests are done and are generally in the range of $5-10 per sample for a single plant. Group testing is by far more cost effective.
fancyfarmer
The state of Florida does it for free if you have a registered, own-use nursery.
marilyninOttawa
Insects, especially aphids, have been implicated in virus transmission as in Bean Yellow Mosaic Virus that badly affects Masdevallias. Sucking insects pierce the plant tissues and provide an entry point for virus particles laying on the surface of the plant. There is some evidence to suggest that smaller viruses may be transmitted via ingested sap.
Lois. I would like to ask you what the policy is regarding judges touching plants during ribbon or award judging.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
In Houston, hands on by judges is normal. But they wash their hands...
fancyfarmer
Marilyn, we always touch the plants mainly to judge substance but at the very least while measuring the flowers we have to touch them.
Lanceps
Judges have to touch to judge substance.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
I worry more about losing pollen during judging, particularly if it's a really good plant and outstanding flowers...
marilyninOttawa
Virus disease is one of the most insidious challenges facing hobbyists. Many infected plants show no evidence of disease but they may not produce as many flowers as they would if not infected. They remain carriers of virus and therefore a potential source of infection. I am concerned at the quantity of suspect mericloned stock being marketed in various outlets including shows.
djanvrin
It's been a pleasant evening and I'd love to return (I'm an OrchidSafari newbie). But, I'm flying out early omorrow to redlands and must go. Have a nice evening and to those of you attending Redlands, see you there.
fancyfarmer
No we don't wash our hands between plants and I really don't think that is necessary. The plant tissue must be damaged for virus to get in anyway. I have heard scientists say that insects cannot carry virus into the plant because the virus particles are too big to be carried through the insects small parts. However other sources have said that some insects do transmit virus. The insects do penetrate the 'skin' so provide a damaged entry point.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Should we be growing other plants that are typed as 'tell-tales' for viruses in with our orchids to detect virus infections?
marilyninOttawa
A virus test requires about one square inch or even less of leaf.
Dig Orchids
I have some phals that I had checked for viruses, none showed signs, all tested clear.
marylois
Marilyn, AOS judges are taught to touch the blooms for substance. Haven't seen one damaged yet (knock on wood!)...even with the rougher measuring. I've often wondered about smokers though.
marilyninOttawa
Do judges wash their hands between plants?
Dig Orchids
marylois, ask smoking judges to rinse hands in tomato juice, rinse in whole milk, then wash well with soap and water.
UncleEarl (Earl from Vacaville, CA)
Just as a point of information, the Tobacco - Orchid strain is different than the strain in tobacco. Smokers *cannot* transmit the virus to orchids.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Thanks for that info, Earl. Now I can smoke in my GH.
marylois
Have never seen them wash between plants, Marilyn.
Jade from G R
Marilyn. How about other aspects of Orchid Conservation vis a vis orchid shows?
marilyninOttawa
Doug. Good question. I understand that African Violets, for example, can harbor viruses that also afflict orchids. Certainly other plants such as lilies, freesias, onions, amaryllis, etc., can harbor virus too. Beans, tomatoes and peppers grown outside a
greenhouse can host aphids and other insects which can enter a greenhouse and transmit disease.
marilyninOttawa
Which telltales were you thinking of?
johng in garland (webbed toes )
Marilyn, how is the viruses from the african violets transmitted? All mine are sacrificial, on the lowest shelf.
UncleEarl (Earl frm Vacaville, CA)
If by 'telltales', you mean indicator plants for specific viruses, Cassia occidentalis is one for CyMV. Can't remember the one for ORSV.
Lanceps
My plants hang out on the patio with impatiens, begonias, fuchsias, and scented geraniums. Are these ok?
reparata (agnes in australia autumn a.m. 20C)
Marilyn, can sweet sap be normal on some leaves and buds? In that case should I keep wiping or washing it off? It attracts ants who die at the rim of a mini-dish of ant rid. I mean if diligent inspection shows no pests.
marilyninOttawa
Sap exudate on stems, leaves and buds is normal. To reduce the stickiness, simply spray the plants frequently with tepid water.
Jade from G R
Isn't one of the Chenopodiums a virus indicator?
marilyninOttawa
That is correct, Jade.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
I'd have to check, Marilyn. But some specific plants that show immediate reactions to orchid-type viruses are used to check.
marilyninOttawa
Lois. I do not know if someone has evaluated the consequences of first handling a virused plant then a non-infected specimen. I would not want to be paranoid about the consequences but perhaps a no touch policy would be better especially in ribbon judging and show table judging. Maybe this already exists somewhere?
[I would be hesitant to dismiss the possibility that virus can be carried by touching. If water dripping from virused onto non-virused plants can spread disease then virus particles could similarly be spread by hands. A first giant step would be to reduce the number of infected plants in collections and hence at shows and on the show table. I would like to see producers using tests to ensure that their stock about to be mericloned is virus-free. It might also be prudent to have judges wash their hands before handling plants submitted for judging, especially after ribbon-judging a large show...ML]
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
It does exist in Australia. In AOS is Modus Operandi.
Jade from G R
Was Fleur rather surprised that judges here handled the flowers?
johng in garland (webbed toes )
I can't seem to get rid of a fire ant population that seems to like my Dend. phal. hybrids' buds! I'm using Andro flakes, and regularly. I'd be afraid to show any plants right now. (What about setting a pot in a pan of soapy water and encouraging the ants to abandon ship? ML)
MiamiBert
Orthene supposed to be great for fire ants!
marilyninOttawa
John, I expect that the main way is by touching each other in the same tray, contaminated water splashing or soaking into nearby pots. Also, old unwashed contaminated pots later used for orchids. Virus particles get spread around and eventually when one repots or otherwise disturbs an orchid, virus particles gain entry via the wound. Blossom thrips which often afflict Af. Violets could also infest orchid blooms. The thrips could carry particles on its body. Af. Violets can be tested for the presence of virus just as in orchids.
I do not know if there would be a value of housing a Cassia with your collection. It might develop lesions but all you would know is that it became contaminated with virus. You would not know which plant or plants were the source of the virus.
UncleEarl (Earl from Vacaville, CA)
Marilyn - Cassia is a local lesion host, which is why it is so good. It does *not* become infected.
marilyninOttawa
Earl. Thank you for the correction. By infection I meant the presence of localized lesions.
UncleEarl (Earl from Vacaville, CA)
I wouldn't grow the Cassia in with the orchids, anyway, as there would be a *lot* of infectious material around.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show
Newcomers should be aware of dangers of infection, the ways we prevent (sterile cutters, etc.) but not be too concerned - you can become paranoid. when one starts amassing a valuable collection, then, IMHO, it is time for virus testing.
jim4eq
equitants are a good telltale for scale. Best to locate the hybrids on the outside tho, so you don't lose "another" guianensis alba-rubrum
marilyninOttawa
When we house orchids with other plants we always run a risk of cross infestation. Impatiens (Patience Plant) almost always attract spider mites although the problem will not usually be severe while the plants are thriving. Impatiens are a good 'telltale' in the greenhouse to detect mites. At a show, indoor plants such as palms are frequently infested with pests and these pests will migrate to your show plants especially if they are close to an infested tree. I advise show committees to assess the relative risk
of a show site before the event. If possible, situate plant exhibits far away from living decorative plants. At the very least, advise members to adopt protective measures upon return of plants from the show. These we have discussed earlier.
reparata (agnes in australia autumn a.m. 20C)
Marilyn, would it be a good idea to give one's plant a protective spray just before taking it to a show? Then keep on being vigilant once back from it.
marilyninOttawa
Agnes. I am reluctant to spray plants with pesticides immediately before a show. People will be handling those plants and one does not know about the consequences. Some judges/show goers may be especially sensitive to pesticides. Being vigilant upon return is best.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Marilyn, I feel a light coating of Safers Soap is reasonably safe for judges to handle. Opinion?
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
*LOL* believe she means the exhibitor builders, Doug. I've never even thought about it before! Marilyn! Safers should be ok though,
considering. [Nice of you to think about the judges *G*]
marilyninOttawa
Doug. Safer's or similar soap preps are probably OK but I would not recommend that plants be routinely sprayed before a show unless there was a problem. Better afterwards.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
...yet a Safer spray a day beforehand would save one the embarrassment of that sudden aphid breakout. Happened to me one day. Happily I found it and pulled it myself and it was a library display [not a judged show], not in a show. Perfectly clean going in. Crawling the next day! I even 'Safered' everything in that area of the display ...and confessed to other exhibitors so they could take whatever precaution they saw fit.
marilyninOttawa
John, have you tried intercepting the ants by placing a barrier such as Tanglefoot between them and the plants? I do this with the greenhouse supports and it keeps all ants away.
Jane DePadro (In Dry but Beautiful Ft. Laud., FL)
I do not know WHERE I would isolate plants, there is no room...
I can see how a greenhouse because it is like a small world of its own, could be quickly overrun by pests. My plants are in danger all the time, but good culture and air circulation and sticking with the plants that love HEAT and HUMIDITY and SUN helps. The wimpy plants that I LOVE the most are the cool growers, they just turn pale and die BEFORE the aphids can get to them, I keep
hoping though....
marilyninOttawa
Great idea Doug. One aspect which have not discussed tonight, is a policy on the sale of bare root plants. At the recent WOC, quite a bit of material had been imported bareroot. While specialists may be able to help such plants establish, it is a challenge for novices.
jim4eq
marilyn, it's the only way to import into US I think.
marilyninOttawa
As I said in the pre-discussion piece, conservation is about caring.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
I received several bareroot phrags that were packed with thin layers of sphagnum moss and watered immediately, until they could be properly potted. Most have done well. Bare roots dry out quickly.
reparata (agnes in australia autumn a.m. 20C)
Marilyn, I'm a novice and most of Australian mail order orchids are sent barerooted. Guess one just crosses that bridge right at the beginning.
marilyninOttawa
Agnes. If one is dealing with a reputable dealer and the plants have been freshly unpotted, wrapped in newspaper and shipped vis express post, you probably will have little problem repotting and growing on. The problem comes with plants unpotted, stored for days then shipped in poor conditions whereupon they lose their roots. Once you get one of these you have a problem and a
likely dead plant staring you in the face. The plant dies, you lose your investment and some of the joy of seeing that plant bloom.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
I'm thinking of preparing some suggested guidelines that could be put in our newsletter. Lois, we may have to compare notes...[Be sure to have a credit line for Marilyn and OrchidSafari *S*...mlg]
marilyninOttawa
Doug, Yes, with appropriate credits. You might want to wait until we review the transcript.
marylois
Indeed, Doug! Jade is sending me a copy of the one her society uses - we can all get together and prepare a joint effort! New project for OrchidSafari!
******&&&&&
marilyninOttawa
We have not had that catastrophe yet, Clare, but a good point. Security of construction would be another point to add to the synopsis of this chat.
Jade from G R
Clare, if you only have 3 volunteers to set up a show no one not helping really can't complain. If that happens more than once your group ought to rethink even entering a display. Those set ups can really be grueling! Last year we did one and then had to drive home in a surprise blizzard.
[Those who agree to put up society/group displays are unsung heros - I am certain no one damages a plant willingly..all the care in the world will still result in the occasional casualty. I'm happy just to get my plant back...and we must use care on these "hints", if they are perceived as "rules" it will be even more difficult to get people willing to take on the tremendous task of collecting, transporting, setting up under time constraints, entering, keeping sprayed, and bringing display home. And, yes, I had a plant stepped on, nominated for CCM, and all the little flowers stayed on the floor when it was picked up for judging...accidents happen...mlg]
Clare in LA
Jade, what really got me was the display was a three society get together, and only my society brought judges! The others came three hours later!
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
That's right, Jade. And accidents WILL happen. From time to time, most of us has done something to some plant, or have had to be forgiving when it happens to one of ours. We'll just preach using care. *S*
DigOrchids
"Caring for Your Plants is Conservation"
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
Drives the point home, Doug.
marilyninOttawa
Air conditioning or just plain cold temps can negatively affect orchids especially blooms of Phals and Vandas.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
At our April show last year, we had brochures describing proper culture of various genera that we were selling. AOS 'official' culture sheets is a good start, I think.
Lanceps
Security can be a problem. At the east-west show at a hotel in downtown LA a few years ago , an award winning plant was stolen. Reward but never returned. The old lady who owned it died within the year. It was in a society exhibit.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show:
Oh, Thamina - what a shame! Hadn't heard about that...hope I never hear of it again.
Jade from G R
Lois, I have heard so many good ideas tonight I now feel our list is totally inadequate. What a great idea - a joint effort project. Hurrah. We could have it designed with a key for weather as well!
Jane DePadro (In WET but Beautiful Ft. Laud., FL)
Training! That is a great idea. I hope that those lists Mary Lois and Jade are preparing include that hint!
Clare in LA
Thamina, that's so sad. At our show at the Huntington, I couldn't believe the people touching and grabbing the flowers. You'd have thought they were judges *g*], and we had no security.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
Jade - do send what you have! Will serve as a framework along with what's here...we can coordinate...guess best to post it on OS homepage and have folks send in revisions?
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
At our last show, every member that walked in automatically was given a SECURITY ribbon to wear. No plants disappeared.
Clare in LA
Doug, that made everybody think twice and maybe those who wore it now felt more responsible. Good idea.
marilyninOttawa
If few wish to support the club in their show endeavors then maybe there shouldn't be a show. Eventually that one individual will burn out and then what?
Clare in LA
Marilyn, I really agree. I must be one of the youngest people in my society. The elders are indeed burning out. Definitely a new direction must be taken. We just got to get those youngun's fired up.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Clare, we had as many as 150 ribbons clearly visible at any given time - it does work, in addition to the volunteers who were actually performing security functions.
Jane DePadro (In WET but Beautiful Ft. Laud., FL)
I think I have acquired a theme for the November Deerfield Beach Orchid Society Show, Thanks, Marilyn.
Jade from G R
Most societies in this area won't do displays in malls because plants disappear. Whoever is removing them seems to know what they are taking. This also applies to other types of plants as well.
Clare in LA
Doug, not only that but when you tell someone to stop touching the plants, they won't want to know 'you and whose army'.
Lanceps
Security was impossible in a hotel setting, exhibits all over. Could have had someone sitting by the exhibit all night.
Jade from G R
Doug, I'm talking about plants disappearing from displays during the show.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
We also roped some distance from exhibits at 1-1/2 arms' length from tables.
marilyninOttawa
Great idea Lois, Doug, Jade. Will be happy to assist.
Jane DePadro (In WET but Beautiful Ft. Laud., FL)
At the Boca show in the Town Center Mall, a lady just up and began to remove plants from Diane Davis's exhibit. The poor lady thought that they were for sale. Diane sold her some other plants. It wasn't funny at first, but now it seems funny because no harm was done.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
BTW, our newsletters get posted on my site: URL is http://geocities.datacellar.net/RainForest/8002, if you all want to
peek.
marilyninOttawa
I think that it is about time to call it a night. Thank you all for the great discussion. Lots of food for thought.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
..and how to help them survive even if they don't? *G*
gaillevy (Boca Raton, Fl)
Been great.
Jade from G R
Marilyn, a great presentation. It really got my thought processes moving on this topic. So much that can be done. Thank for presenting it. Look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Dig Orchids (Doug in Houston)
Thanks, Marilyn.
gaillevy (Boca Raton, Fl)
Will give you a report on the Redlands Sat. night. Thank you, Marilyn.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
Thanks, Gail!!! Wish I were there!
zeynep3
Thank you, Marilyn, goodnight Gail.
Jane DePadro (In Dry but Beautiful Ft. Laud., FL)
Thanks, Marilyn and Marylois and all, goodnight.
Clare in LA
Marilyn, thanks so much. Sorry I came in so late. And I wish I could have talked with you more at WOC rather than just saying hello. Great talk.
marylois (TOPIC: Practicing Conservation at Show)
That goes for all of us at the WOC - get-togethers are great, but never enough time! For a sneak preview my 16WOC trip report,
go to http://www.orchidsafari.org/16WOC.html
Goodnight, Marilyn - great evening! Thanks for all you do! Preparing articles for us, leading chats! Bless you!!
marilyninOttawa
Goodnight all.
Jade from G R
Can't wait for the printout on this chat!!! Night again.
marylois (marylois@shreve.net)
Redlands! Best to all of you going - and PLEASE send me pix! And details of your meetings.
zeynep
Lois, I haven't received my Orchid Digest yet.
marylois(BR>
zeynep - it's just now out - give it a couple weeks....then write Robert Schuler
rhschuler@eee.org
[After chat, had message that Orchid Digest computer had a snarl, many issues will be delayed another two weeks or so.
If you don't receive yours by June 10th, write Executive Director, Bob Schuler at foregoing email address...mlg]
Have you seen the update of OrchidDigest On-Line?
http://www.orchiddigest.com/
Three articles there in full incl pix.
Lights out!
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