Orchids in Singapore

Singapore is the centre for orchid breeding since the 1930s [1]. So it was quite natural to see orchids in so many different places, like Changi Airport, the Botanic Gardens, and the Gardens by the Bay. In fact, orchids have become a symbol for Singapore that its national flower is a hybrid called Miss Joaquim. It truly shows the cosmopolitan nature of Singapore because this Vanda was named after a Singaporean orchid breeder of Armenian descent in 1899 [2].

Breeding for orchids is quite complicated. It is done by "asymbiotic germination" [3]. It is a technique developed by Knudson that allows breeders to propagate orchids from seeds which are placed in specific combinations of nutritious growth media and grown in sterile conditions [4–5]. 

Thankfully, the scientists were able to figure out how to do this technique. Otherwise, many orchids would probably be endangered now. It is important to note that there are species that are already in danger of extinction [6] and work is continuous to ensure that they survive; if not in the wild, at least in the greenhouse.

It was an interesting experience to see the efforts of the orchid breeding program blossoming in Singapore. Looking forward to more flowers and successful preservation programs! 

Reference:
1. https://www.sbg.org.sg/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&layout=item&id=34&Itemid=58
2. https://www.marinabaysands.com/singapore-visitors-guide/nature-and-outdoors/orchids-singapore-national-flower.html#gCv5Fi8gTsizqbvg.97
3. https://www.nparks.gov.sg/activities/events-and-workshops/2015/7/the-orchid-breeding-programme-at-the-singapore-botanic-gardens-past-present-and-future
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989415000037
5. https://revistas.unal.edu.co/index.php/acta_agronomica/article/download/.../18971
6. https://ecosystemsontheedge.org/endangered-orchid/