About Us
The Blue Ridge Orchid Society is an educational nonprofit organization that consists of members in the Upstate of South Carolina that come together to share their love of orchids. We provide people in the Upstate area who are interested in orchids the opportunity to learn more about orchids and a place to interact with other orchid enthusiasts. Our membership consists of all levels of orchid lovers, from experienced to novice. This diversity of experience provides members the opportunity to learn from each other in a welcoming atmosphere.
Past Events
​September Meeting
Our September Meeting was held on September 10, 2020 at the Club at Keowee Key. We had over 27 attendees, with a great mix of members and guests. Mark Reinke from Marble Branch Farms gave his presentation on how Cattleyas have been crossed over the years to make mini Cattleyas and he brought a fabulous selection of plants for us to purchase during the meeting. We welcomed our new members from our February Orchid Show and new guests that signed up for membership during the meeting.
Our Vision
The Blue Ridge Orchid Society promotes the growing of orchids as a hobby; encourages the improvement of orchids by cultivation, hybridization, and exhibition; and disseminates useful information concerning orchids to the public.
​Annual Business Meeting
Our Annual Business Meeting was held on June 14, 2020 at Abernathy Park in Clemson. We had a great time "getting back together" since our meetings were postponed due to COVID-19. During the meeting, we had a potluck lunch, discussed the past year regarding events, membership, financials, and upcoming events for the new year. We also announced that our society will be donating $300 to the American Orchid Society Conservency Fund campaign that works to preserve the natural environment of native orchids in the United States.
Blue Ridge Orchid Society Show & Sale
The Annual Blue Ridge Orchid Show and Sale was held on February 20-22, 2020 at Duke Energy World of Energy. Many different species of orchids were on display and several potting demonstrations were held throughout the weekend. Mark Reinke from Marble Branch Farms was present at the show selling many species of orchids from his nursery.