CJOS May 2026 Newsletter
- LGW3
- May 18
- 2 min read
CJOS Monthly Blog Post -
⭐ Happy May, everyone! The weather has been wild this spring. We started with mild temperatures, then experienced a mini heat wave in April, followed by a cool start to May. Now, we’re seeing temperatures near 100°F🔥in mid-May! ☀️
There’s still a strong possibility that El Niño, expected to develop between June and August, could bring hotter temperatures and increased storm activity to New Jersey and the Atlantic coastal region. Hopefully, this pattern shift will also deliver more consistent and much-needed rainfall to help keep reservoirs full and plant life thriving.
It is now safe to move your orchids outdoors (typically just after Mother's Day weekend)! You can hang them in shaded trees or place them beneath shade cloth for the summer season. Be sure to monitor temperatures and rainfall so your orchids stay properly watered and fertilized on a regular basis.
Automatic misting systems can be extremely helpful during hot summer weather, helping orchids and other plants remain hydrated and preventing them from drying out. When grown outdoors, orchids often show faster and more vigorous growth, and they may experience fewer pest problems since nature helps keep many pests in balance through beneficial predatory insects.
❗At the same time, regular fertilizing becomes even more important. Warmer Temperatures + Brighter Light + Increased Water = Accelerated Growth, which means your orchids will require additional nutrients to thrive!
⭐ Here are a couple of quick ideas for members to consider:
(1) We’re looking for members to create presentations for our monthly meetings (in between featured speakers). Topics could include your growing methods, insights on a specific orchid-related subject, or a spotlight on particular orchid plants.
(2) Our 2026 CJOS Orchid Auction & Sale will be held on June 27, 2026. We’ll need volunteers and committees to help organize the event (auctioneer, runners, plant sale tracking, refreshments, etc.). We’re also asking members to review their collections and consider whether any plants could be divided and/or donated to the auction.
If you’re interested or have any questions, please speak with the President (Chris Bevins) or Vice President (George Wallace) at any meeting for a more detailed discussion.
If you’re new to growing orchids outdoors or just looking to exchange ideas, our monthly meetings are a great place to connect. Many of our members are happy to share their experience, tips, and tricks. It's also a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow orchid enthusiasts and become more involved in the society.
We hope to see you there!
Our members generously volunteer their time to support this wonderful hobby and help keep the society running smoothly. We truly appreciate everyone who participates and contributes to all that CJOS has to offer!
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*May 2026 Speaker: Chris Bevins (What's Wrong With My Orchid?)
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If you are bringing a plant for the display table, you may now prepare and print your Plant ID tag via this 'Plant ID Cards Link'.
*The CJOS meeting venue is at Trinity Church (33 Mercer St., Princeton, NJ 08540, (USA)). The meetings are held from 7pm - 8:30pm. All are welcome to attend a meeting; especially if it is your first time and introduction to CJOS. Grab a member and ask lots of questions about what CJOS is and how to join!
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