Native Orchid Propagation for Sustainability Project (NOPS)

The collaborators have selected an initial “short list” of several species to begin with, and will add additional species once the program is well underway. We will study orchids from different habitats - from the temperate north to Florida to the arid southwest - species that represent a range of ecological life history strategies and conservation priorities. Collaborators will work in concert to replicate methods, and results will be published and shared broadly.

We anticipate that this research will provide the basic horticultural knowledge required to support the growth, survival, and reproduction of native orchids from seed to flowering plants, as well as advance our collective understanding of orchid-fungal interactions. The resultant “best practice” propagation protocols for individual native orchid species will be used to inform sustainable growing practices and support efforts by a wide range of horticulture professionals, hobby growers, and individuals – and ultimately, to advance biodiversity and conservation goals.

We are very appreciative of the partnership and support for this project by the U.S. Botanic Garden, Smithsonian Gardens, and Longwood Gardens, as well as the generous contributions of the Maxwell-Hanrahan Foundation, Underwood & Associates, The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen, and private individuals. Thank You!