Heading to Key West...orchid nurseries?

[ColoradoBirddog]

Haven't been to the Keys in a long time. Are there any cool shops to see orchids?

[DirtyCoconuts]

There a few nurseries in the keys that sell orchids but nothing i have ever Found worth buying. Now, if you are driving there you will pass the Redlands and, whoa, Nelly! well, they have some stuff there

[Keysguy]

Nothing really in the Keys for commercial orchids. If you are getting there by driving from SOFL (MIA or FLL) you should definitely plan some time to visit some of the orchid nurseries in Homestead/Redland area as DC suggested.
If you are interested, we can probably put together a list of suggestions for you.

[DirtyCoconuts]

even if you don't "want" it

RF orchids - get the tour!

banjong Orchids- great vanda collection and unreal source for clay pots and mounts and columns. really good clearance section always

Paradise Nursery - 22100 sw 134 ave- Miami Fl 33170- this is owned by an awesome dude named Jesus...he has a great selection of terrestrials and awesome other plants at massive sizes, really cool other plants too. If you want to go here, PM me and i will give you his number -

if you are going to be there in season, Knaus Berry Farm is AMAZING baked goods and bomb shakes

Robert Is Here- a truly awesome produce stand with great varieties and an unsurpassed honey selection (he works with his and other local farmers to have hives at ALL fields, then he not only is helping to pollenate but he gets dozens of types of honey!)

Soroa Orchid Gardens- I have always dealt with Jose and he is very knowledgeable - always a ton of cool stuff to see.


Keysguy, what am i forgetting for the 'Essential Homestead/Redlands Plant Tour' LOL ?

[Keysguy]

RF for sure and Soroa is good.
I also really like some of the things that Martin Motes has done, especially if you like vandaceous "things".
I think they are located on Farm Life Rd. in Redland.

What's kind of cool about that area though is if you drive around a bit, you're apt to come across some small roadside operations where you can find some real gems at great prices.

[estación seca]

If you are at all interested in other tropical plants, the Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead is amazing. It was the McCormick estate, and is thickly planted with hundreds of tropical fruiting plants and trees. You can eat (and collect seed) of fruit already fallen on the ground.

[Keysguy]

the Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead is amazing

Yes it is and if you come down to the Keys Birddog, do it the third weekend of May and get to the F&S Park for the Redland Orchid Show. Best collection of vendors at any US show (there are usually around 60 plant vendors). They come from as far away as So. Africa!

Missed it bad when it was cancelled this year. I usually do 2-3 big pre-orders but that doesn't stop me from "shopping".

[isurus79]

Originally Posted by Keysguy

Missed it bad when it was cancelled this year.

This year was going to be my first Redlands trip!!!

[DirtyCoconuts]

I am so sad for you all (and me too) as it is an amazing place even without an awesome orchid show

Fruit and spice Park is a truly one of a kind experience And must not be missed