FOR THE NOVICE ORCHIDOLOGIST

What are we?

People who study plants for a living are generally called botanists; you can however be an amateur one or you can simply be a plant lover! Someone with a direct interest in orchids, especially those in the wild, is often referred to as an orchidologist, thus it can be said we are all botanists. In addition, we need to think like an ecologist! In studying wild plants it is also usual that you need to understand their ecological processes for success. There is a need to understand the individual aspects (autecology) of a particular species but also its relationship and processes that enable it to thrive and evolve in a community of plants (synecology) within each habitat. For example; most orchids have a relationship with a fungus or if saprophitic have a common host. Being an orchidologists isn't simply about ticking off plants you have seen, it is probably best described as the study of ecology through the focus of one particular genera of plants. For the novice they will quickly come to the realisation that the habitat is just as important as the species and there is an inextricable link between them.

What do we do? 

Well, just be yourself and show interest in your subject. I don't mean you have to be an expert or extremely knowledgeable about orchids, you just have to show a great deal of interest or excitement that stirs you enough to become highly enthused. Go out and see what is growing in your neighbourhood - You might just be surprised – I certainly was!

Many of us might also grow hardy orchids, some even specialise in their propagation, others are happy recording and submitting records to BSBI (The Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland), some work with wildlife trusts or other organisations, others naturalists, ecologists or even photographers. Many though are everyday folk who want to discover what it is that make orchids so unique that they warrant such significant attention.

Trust

A point I need to address is secrecy! It is very likely you will come to know many a secret place where orchids can be found - in general the word is not to speak to anyone about your secret who otherwise might be a threat to that knowledge. So only 'show or tell' when you are confident that the person you are transmitting information to, is of good character and can be trusted. Trust is an essential part of being an Orchidologist.

What do we usually need?

First you need a good selection of Orchid and Wildflower books, and it's wise to have current books as well as more historical ones. Having field guides or Keys are also useful for identifying orchids and other plants when out and about many of these guides can be found online.

Secondly, you might want to take photographs of your findings as a record. These days you can take some very good images on the camera of a mobile phone, you don't need expensive gear! Of course you might also need a computer or tablet to download your images to.

Apart from taking photographs you might also want to record your findings - so having a pen and booklet with you is always a good thing - Remember –  NEVER dig up or pick any wild flowers.

Many people join groups or societies to go and see orchids and where you get the chance to meet with likeminded people. Personally, I don't enjoy large groups, because not only do they tend to be more social organisations but also I don't believe it's a good thing to have so many people stamping around what might be a very important habitat at any one time.  Being with a large group can also mean you can miss an interesting find whilst looking at another, however more eyes are always a good thing. I once showed an important orchid site to a colleague, and after explaining that five species of orchid grow on this site he looked close to where I stood and added another new species I clearly had overlooked! I still haven't got over the shame!

That brings me to say orchidologists/botanists have a very keen eye! Okay, I miss one occasionally, but if you are a new orchidologist you will soon want not to! Many years ago I was being driven around Corsica and whilst admiring the amazing landscape the country offers with one eye, my other was distinctively on the orchidaceous verges! Every so often I would have to ask to stop the car – I think it was a slow, but very exciting time!

Some people relish the opportunity to join a society – they can certainly have their positives, however they also can be extraordinarily cliquey.

Remember – Always respect the countryside when you are out and about – it is your friend not your enemy!