Wild Orchid Hunting: Manatee County Florida

[Beaveljeez]

Hello all. I just purchased a book that identifies many wild orchids here in Florida. I live in Manatee county and see that there are many wild orchid species here and in surrounding counties. I was wondering if anyone out there knows the area and could give me some pointers on where to look. The book identifies the time of year the orchids bloom, what county they are found, their habitats and possible places to find them. It's still like finding a needle in a hay stack though. Just wondered if anyone may have some pointers so I can break the ol' camera out and go on an orchid hunt! Thanks!

[flhiker]

Hi Beaveljeez and welcome to the OB. It sounds like you bought a copy of Wild Orchids of Florida. Excellent book, I use it regularly. As far as any tips go, You just need to get out there and start looking in the area's the book indicates. If your want some instant gratification I suggest going to the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve. Not knowing how experienced you are in the wild, You should stay close to the road and be prepared to get wet. Good Luck and don't forget to show us what you found.

[Beaveljeez]

That's the book! Do you know what laws there are about removing orchids from any of these types of places? Just curious. My wife wants to know! Thanks for the reply.

[flhiker]

taking anything. Its a State Preserve and Everything is protected. Also most of the orchid there are endangered and protected Federally as well. The good news is you take as many pictures as you want.

Main Page - Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park Florida State Parks

[gixrj18]

Originally Posted by Beaveljeez

That's the book! Do you know what laws there are about removing orchids from any of these types of places? Just curious. My wife wants to know! Thanks for the reply.

Nine out of ten times, it will die in captivity. So then you not only rape nature of one of it's most beautiful endangered plant creations, but you end up with nothing to show for it. If you want a particular species, you are much better off getting it from a grower. Aside from dodging an incredible fine, you will get a much healthier plant from a nursery, that will stand a much higher chance of surviving and blooming.

[Beaveljeez]

Well, thank God that I'm not out to "rape" nature. It was just a question, appreciate the response.

[gixrj18]

Originally Posted by Beaveljeez

Well, thank God that I'm not out to "rape" nature. It was just a question, appreciate the response.

I didn't mean that to be taken personally, please don't be offended. Perhaps a poor choice of words.

[Amanda L]

How wonderful to be able to find orchids so close to you! Taking orchids from the wild is never a good idea. Like Jasen said they would probably end up dying. I'm not sure, but I think taking any plant from the wild is prohibited. Besides, wouldn't we enjoy it much more to see them growing where they are?

[Beaveljeez]

No prob Jasen. It will be pretty amazing to see some in the wild! I can't wait to go on a search.