One-Day Seminar with Dr Torsten Kleffmann
The New Zealand Orchid Society is pleased to announce a special one-day seminar with Dr Torsten Kleffmann — scientist, orchid hybridiser, and grower with a passion for the unusual.
Dr Kleffman is a researcher at the University of Otago, where he works in proteomics, the large-scale study of proteins using mass spectrometry. While his professional research focuses on the molecular machinery of living cells, his long-standing passion lies in orchids.
We have secured time with him to share both his scientific perspective and his practical experience as a dedicated grower and breeder.
Venue: Hall 2, Western Springs Garden Community Hall, 956 Great South Road, Western Springs, Auckland
Date: 11th April, 2026
Start Time: 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM
Cost: $20 per person
All are welcome.
Seminar Programme
1. Growing Orchids from Seed – An Introduction to Flasking
A clear and practical session covering the fundamentals of orchid propagation from seed, including:
- Pollination
- Harvesting and handling seed
- In vitro germination
- Growing seedlings in flask.
This presentation is designed to make the flasking process understandable for growers interested in expanding their skills.
2. Results from My Hybridising Work
In this session, Dr Kleffmann will present selected results from his own orchid crosses. Using examples from his breeding programme, he will showcase the range of outcomes achieved and discuss what those results reveal about breeding direction and selection.
Attendees will gain insight into the practical realities of hybridising — including the diversity of traits expressed and how breeding objectives evolve over time.
3. Challenges in Cultivating Complex Orchid Collections
Managing a diverse orchid collection presents unique challenges. Drawing from his own experience, Dr Kleffmann will discuss the strategies he has developed, along with the successes and setbacks encountered while growing a wide range of species and hybrids.
This session will be valuable for collectors seeking a practical approach to maintaining healthy, thriving plants across diverse genera.
Seminar Schedule
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 9:00 am | Registration and tea |
| 9:30 am | First presentation |
| 10:30 am | Morning tea |
| 11:00 am | Second presentation |
| 12:30 pm | Lunch |
| 1:30 pm | Third presentation |
| 3:00 pm | Afternoon tea |
| 4:00 pm | Clean-up and pack away |
There will be opportunities for questions throughout the day, with additional informal discussion time built into the afternoon session.
Event Details
Cost: $20 per person, bank transfer details will be emailed to you within 24 hours.
The registration fee includes coffee, tea, drinks and lunch.