ABOUT US

TOC Officers 2008 - 2009

Tampa Orchid Club was founded in 1957 by Mrs. R. A. Davis, an avid garden club member and horticulturist. Also being a lover of exotic orchids, she felt other orchid friends might want to study with her. So, one Tuesday morning in 1957, she invited them to her home and it was decided they meet one day each month to study culture, displays, shows and all phases of orchids. At that time, emphasis was given to “The Use of Cut Orchids”.She also established the Club philosophy of always being friendly and making the meetings a pleasure as well as informative.We, the members of Tampa Orchid Club, extend a warm welcome and hope you will join us in exploring this fascinating world of orchids.

Meetings

General meetings are held on the 4^th Tuesday of the month. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. and the meeting starts promptly at 10:00 a.m. After adjournment, a potluck luncheon is served to all attending. This is a wonderful time to socialize, exchange growing experiences and query the experts. From May 08 thru Dec. 08 (possibly longer) we will be temporarily meeting at the Ragan Center, 1200 E. Lake Blvd., Tampa, while renovations are being done to the Seminole Garden Center.

Directions

From I-275 take the M.L. K. Blvd. exit. Travel east to N. 12^th St. (3 blks), go south to E. Lake Ave. (4 blks.), turn left, the Ragan Center will be on your left. The building is handicap accessible.

Membership

Our membership reflects the diversity of the Tampa Bay population -- professionals and amateurs of all ages plus many retired hobbyists. We range in experience from the greenest of novices to veteran growers with the greenest of thumbs. Our membership also consists of several American Orchid Society accredited judges and area growers.

Programs/Field Trips/Parties

Our meeting programs are varied -- ranging from specialties of area growers to hybridizing, AOS judging, displays, culture, conservation, pest and diseases.

March and November are our field trip months. In lieu of a regular meeting, we visit growers, browse their greenhouses and purchase orchids to add to our collections.

December is our annual Christmas Party with a wonderful luncheon catered by membership. Members bring orchid related gifts to exchange. May is our Spring Party and installation of officers. A luncheon is also catered by membership and all members attending receive a gift orchid.

During regular meetings, there is a library available for members to check out orchid books, magazines and videos.

We also have the "Orchid Depot" where you can purchase orchid supplies at extremely reasonable prices.

Membership also receives a monthly Newsletter that keeps everyone informed of upcoming events, club and membership accomplishments, culture tips, and offers informative news on the orchid world.