Carlos Cahiz, ‘Tips and Tricks of Orchid cultivation in South Florida’

Got orchid problems? OFE’s Carlos Cahiz has answers

Carlos A. Cahiz , who runs  OFE International Orchids & Supplies,  will hold an interactive discussion about frequent problems we encounter with orchid cultivation in South Florida at 7:30 p.m., Monday, March 10.

You won’t want to miss our general meeting to learn his “Tips & Tricks of Orchid Cultivation.”

Potting time has arrived, and Carlos will cover multiple topics to help us identify frequent problems and offer potential solutions to improve our growing. Subjects will include fertilizing, watering, treating problem insects, as well as using pesticidesand fungicides. We encourage participation, so bring photos of any issues you may be experiencing so he can help diagnose your problem.

Carlos is a native of Valencia, Venezuela, and is a past president of the South Florida Orchid Society. He graduated from the University of Kansas in 1989. In1990, he joined his family orchid business in the Redland, working with brother Chris. His first big test as a manager was to deal with the devastation leftbehind by Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Many of you have visited OFE on our Redland rambles and know that there is always something new happening. OFE’s has an expanded product line of chemicals and potting supplies and has orchids and tropical plants for sale, too.

Carlos lives in West Kendall with wife Amanda, their son and various adopted dogs, birds, turtles and, of course, orchids and tropical plants. He says his growing approach can be distilled into two simple ideas: Tender neglect and listening to your plants.

OFE’s is at 17899 SW 280 St., Homestead; ofeintl.com; 305-253-7080. Carlos will bring supplies for purchase after his presentation. With his help, your orchid collection soon will be bursting with blooms.