Orchids may seem mysterious and exotic, but Jeff Baldwin, of the Orchid Gallery, places the tools of successful orchid growing in the hands of the everyday gardener.

Baldwin will speak to the public at the Ball Visitor Center, Sandhills Community College, at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 7.

"Many people ask me what they need to do to take care of an orchid," he says. "I like to respond by telling them what they should NOT do so not to kill an orchid."

Baldwin's business offers a broad variety of services to assist in this process, ranging from diagnosing to boarding and repotting, as he wants all to enjoy "the feeling of accomplishment " that comes from successfully re-blooming an orchid.

Baldwin enjoys answering questions and will discuss what to watch for when growing orchids.

"There are many things one can do to successfully grow an orchid, but only a few things you can do to kill them," he says. "Use your eyes when caring for orchids to see patterns. Let your eyes be your ears so you can listen to your plants."

Baldwin's talk is offered free to the public courtesy of the Sandhills Horticultural Society and the Sandhills Council of Garden Clubs, but space is limited so make a reservation by calling Tricia Mabe at (910) 695-3882.

Orchids will be for sale after the program.