Caribbean Food Crops Society
44th Annual Meeting
July 13th - 17th, 2008  Miami, Florida, USA 
Hosted by:

44th Meeting Home    Registration    Program    Field Trips    Hotel Information    Abstract Submission    CFCS Main

Field Trip 2:  Production Nurseries, Ornamentals
Scroll down or click the various stops to learn more:  Stop #1, Stop #2, Stop #3, Stop #4

 

Stop #1:  Kerry’s Orchids & Bromeliads
Thursday July 17, 2008

(Morning) http://www.kerrys.com

Elegant Plants for Home Décor:

Kerry’s Bromeliad Nursery is one of the largest potted orchid production complexes in the world -- and the largest in North America -- growing more than 5 million orchids at its facilities in Homestead and Apopka. The tranquility and natural beauty of the plants in bloom belie the complex technology behind the nursery. Kerry’s has pioneered and implemented numerous Best Management Practices for potted plant production. These BMPs include rolling benches, robotic transport and transplanting, ebb-and-flood irrigation, rainwater recycling, reverse-osmosis water treatment, total containment of pesticide runoff, and environmental cooling chambers for year-round orchid flowering.

 

Stop #2:  R.F. Orchids, Inc.
Thursday July 17, 2008

(Morning) http://www.rforchids.com
The Charles F. Fuchs family arrived in South Florida to open a grocery store soon after 1900. Charles, Jr. started Holsum Bakery in Homestead in 1916, then moved the business to South Miami where the enticing aroma of fresh baked bread was a pleasant drive-by attraction from 1934-1980.

Charles and son Freddie Fuchs collected orchids, amassing large numbers and gaining experience in growing and propagating methods over the years. Bob Fuchs is a third generation orchid grower and his highly respected operation, R. F. Orchids is one of the finest in the South.

At R.F. Orchids, you will find thousands of exotic orchids growing in a hammock-like setting accented with gazebos, ponds, Tiki huts and lush landscaping. The orchids are everywhere, with many of the finest on display at the entrance. Take your time looking around and don’t be afraid to ask questions of the staff.

R.F. Orchids has won many awards for outstanding work in orchid breeding and growing. When you browse through the greenhouses, it’s easy to see why.

With an enviable private collection of hybrids, Bob is world renowned as an expert. He also leads fantastic travel tours to exotic destinations such as Indonesia, Borneo, and Thailand for orchid fanatics. Bob or a member of his staff often give personal tours of the property at 11am and 3pm, so call ahead and find out if he might be available when you visit.

Don’t miss the chance to take home a few great orchids. The prices are quite reasonable and the variety is outstanding.

 

Stop #3:  Schnebly Redland's Winery,
Thursday July 17, 2008

(Lunch) http://www.schneblywinery.com

With a unique harmony of South Florida's tropical fruit and old world sophistication, Schnebly wines bring a totally new experience to your taste buds. They have crafted the only tropical wines produced in the U.S. that are made with absolutely no grapes. They currently offer five varieties; Carambola, Mango, Lychee, Guava and Passion Fruit. Each has its own style and personality. It's something you must taste yourself. Their winery and tasting room is located halfway between Miami and the Florida Keys, in the Redland tropical countryside. Whether you want to sip wine outdoors near their 120 foot long waterfalls or sample their wines in the tasting room full of gift baskets and wine gadgets, they have it all. Wine tastings are available seven days a week. If you are interested in how the winery works and how wine is made, visit them on the weekends when they offer tours of the winery every hour, on the hour. Take a closer look at: http://www.schneblywinery.com

 

Stop #4:  Costa Nursery,
Thursday July 17, 2008

(Afternoon)

Costa Nursery Farms, LLC is a grower and wholesaler of fine tropical foliage, bedding plants, succulents, cacti, bonsai, orchids, and seasonal products. The company distributes its products in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Costa Nursery Farms, LLC was founded in 1961 and is based in Goulds, Florida.