Useful Orchid Growing Information

First Rays LLC

Website: www.firstrays.com

There is a wide range of orchid care information available online. Below is a selection of websites that provide clear, reliable guidance on growing orchids. One notable resource is First Rays, founded by Ray Barkalow in 1994. Ray began his orchid journey as a ceramic engineering student at Georgia Tech. He later lost his entire private collection in a greenhouse freeze. To replace the loss, he launched First Rays as an internet-based orchid business. He developed and introduced the Semi‑Hydroponic™ orchid culture system to simplify plant care during his frequent travels 

His site offers detailed free guides on basic culture, watering, nutrition, potting, pests, and his signature semi‑hydroponic method.

The Orchid Council of New Zealand

The Orchid Council of New Zealand (OCNZ) is the national body representing affiliated orchid societies across New Zealand. It operates as an incorporated society and registered charity focused on supporting orchid growing at all levels.

The organisation promotes the study, cultivation, and conservation of orchids, while providing education and resources to growers. It encourages participation through local societies, events, and national activities that support both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.

A key role of OCNZ is maintaining standards for orchid judging and awards. Its national judging system recognises superior orchid species, hybrids, and cultivation, contributing to improved plant quality and consistency across the country.

OCNZ also supports conservation efforts, including stewardship of native orchid habitats such as the Iwitahi reserve, which protects rare and endangered New Zealand orchid species.

You can view its website at: www.orchidcouncil.org.nz

American Orchid Society (AOS)

The American Orchid Society is a global nonprofit organisation focused on orchid education, conservation, and scientific research.

The website provides orchid growing guides, pest and disease information, and detailed care resources for both hobbyists and experienced growers. It also includes webinars, publications, and a large archive of orchid-related content.

A key function of the organisation is its orchid judging system. The AOS accredits judges and awards orchids based on flower quality, form, colour, and overall cultivation standards, contributing to an international award database used by growers and breeders.

Members gain access to OrchidPro, an award-winning orchid database with photos and cultural data, along with magazines, learning resources, and member benefits.

The site also supports orchid societies, events, and a global community focused on growing, breeding, and conservation.

You can view the AOS website here: www.aos.org

Saint Augustine Orchid Society

Website: www.staugorchidsociety.org

The St. Augustine Orchid Society, founded in 2006, serves orchid enthusiasts in northeast Florida. It grew to over 100 members within a few years, uniting both novice growers and experienced collectors 

The society publishes free guides on general orchid culture, beginner tips, repotting, pests, diseases, and monthly growing advice tailored to Florida’s climate 

Its website includes detailed sections such as “Orchid Growing for Beginners", “Basics of Orchid Culture”, and a library covering orchid genera and seasonal care 

In addition to written content, the society hosts monthly meetings, virtual show tables, and repotting clinics for hands‑on support in growing orchids successfully in the local environment 

Return to the Orchid Culture page.