Kristen Uthus ~ New World Orchids ~ Australian Dendrobiums (click for pre-order info) (14 Jul 2026)

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Dr. Kristen Uthus studied both plant and animal ecology and evolution at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and the Ohio State University (OSU). She then taught biology and ecology at several colleges including VCU, OSU, University of Michigan, and Eastern Michigan University. The daughter of a plant fanatic, Kristen has been growing orchids for over 20 years, and in 2014 she fulfilled her dream of making orchids a full-time commitment by purchasing NWO.

Although she enjoys growing many varieties of orchids and other plants, miniatures remain her passion—the weirder the better. New World Orchids specializes in Japanese species including Neofinetia falcata, Dendrobium moniliforme, and Sederia japonica, but her miniature selection includes many other small species including Pleurothallids, Bulbophyllums, and Angraecums. Although never entirely up to date, you can check out some of NWO’s offerings at www.newworldorchids.com.

Kristen lives in Manchester, MI, about an hour west of Detroit. She is supported in her orchid pursuits by her husband, Dr. Kevin Wehrly, and her two sons, Henry and Gus.

PROGRAM: Australian Dendrobiums: Beauties from Down Under

Kristen says..."Dendrobium is my favorite genus, and the Australian dens are my favorites of the bunch. They are big and small, warm to cool, diverse in form and flower, and no matter where you live in the US, you can grow these wonderful plants. You’re going to fall in love".

PRE-ORDERS:

Kristen is offering a 10% discount on pre-orders delivered to the meeting. Order from the website newworldorchids.com and pay at meeting. Order cut-off date is July 4th.

Building a Show Display (11 Aug 2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Beginning with the Connecticut Orchid Society Show (September); MOS builds its own Show display (November), followed by the Cape (January), Amherst (February), New Hampshire (March) and Nutmeg State Society (March). We have a small core of folks that collect plants, travel to the various show venues and set up a display representing MOS. At the conclusion of the shows (Sunday afternoons) a few folks break down the display and bring the plants back.

While we can always use more help, this is a great opportunity to work with friends, make new friends and help newer members integrate into our society. And it’s an enjoyable way to expand your involvement in MOS.

The August meeting program will discuss the details of the displays, and we’ll actually build one during the meeting. Discussions will include identifying plants, color arraigning, providing symmetry, elevated levels and discussing the perspective of the AOS Judges.

Do come to this meeting. Do put your hand and ideas into a display. Do enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow members...It’s fun!

Massachusetts Orchid Society upcoming events

Kristen Uthus ~ New World Orchids ~ Australian Dendrobiums (click for pre-order info) (14 Jul 2026)

Building a Show Display (11 Aug 2026)