Mike Mims is an energetic Phalaenopsis grower and hybridizer from Asheville, North Carolina. His focus remains steady with fragrant, novelty Phalaenopsis orchids. Phalaenopsis species such as bellina, violacea, fragrant primaries and complex novelties are of strong interest to him. Mike has been growing orchids for 25 years, while breeding his favorite Phalaenopsis for nearly 20 years. He has proudly earned over 100 flower quality and cultural awards by the American Orchid Society, including 6 FCC’s, one of which is to his own hybrid, Phalaenopsis Blue Ridge Dragon. Mike is an active exhibitor and advocate at the Carolina’s Judging Center and has been climbing the ranks over the past decade as a respected Phalaenopsis breeder, collector and is known for his passion for great culture. Mike has 2 beautiful children, Riley and Grey, who share their dad’s admiration for orchids and have special Phalaenopsis awarded and named after them. Mike is the past president of the Western North Carolina Orchid Society and actively involved with the Asheville Orchid Festival, a highly recognized event held at the North Carolina Arboretum every spring. Their team in Asheville continues to put on a tremendous festival which annually draws thousands of attendees!

Mike was an invited speaker and guest at the WOC in Taiwan in February, 2024. He’s described it as a trip and opportunity of a lifetime. What current trends and beautiful new hybrids were observed there, along with what we see today will be briefly reviewed and discussed with all in attendance. We’ll be sure to also discuss our thoughts on Phalaenopsis culture and best practices.