The course in orchid cultivation and propagation aims to cover the fundamentals about this incredibly interesting and diverse plant family. This is for anyone who has a passion for orchids or has just received an orchid as a present and wants to take care of it the best way. There will be a presentation to explore the botanical diversity of orchids, and their importance through history in different cultures and science. The presentation will also have a section about the most current knowledge of how orchids are cultivated (temperatures, humidity, growing media, fertilizing, etc.) Then there will be a practical session showing the plants that we have in the collection at the Botanic Garden and the way they can be propagated.

Luigi started his horticultural career in Italy, working for nurseries and a tree survey company, and concluding his university studies in agricultural science and horticulture. He moved to the UK six years ago to further his knowledge of plants and practical skills in garden maintenance. He trained at Threave Garden (National Trust for Scotland), Cambridge University Botanic Garden and then Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and is now back at the Botanic Garden as Glasshouse & Nursery Team Leader.

Phil has been growing orchids for 44 years. He has his own collection at home and has been looking after the orchids at the Botanic Garden for the last 11 years. Phil has written many articles for the RHS Orchid Review and given frequent talks around the country.