My name is Ted Ceplina, and orchids have been part of my life since childhood. I have been growing them for well over 30 years, and what began as an early fascination has grown into a lifelong pursuit of understanding these remarkable plants.
My particular passion is the bifoliate Cattleya species of Brazil. I am currently a student judge with the American Orchid Society and serve on the board of the Madison Orchid Growers Guild. Being involved in the orchid community has given me the opportunity not only to continue learning, but also to share that knowledge with other growers.
Catt House Orchids grew out of my desire to create new hybrids and to make high-quality plants more accessible, particularly within groups of orchids that can sometimes be difficult to find. The name itself is a tip of the hat to my two Cornish Rex cats, Maya and Rena, who have become an inseparable part of the personality of the business.
Beyond growing and hybridizing, I greatly enjoy teaching. I give talks on a variety of orchid-related subjects, including individual groups of orchids, orchidarium design and setup, and general orchid culture. Whether I am working with a species, planning a new cross, or helping another grower solve a cultural problem, curiosity is at the heart of what I do.
For me, Catt House Orchids is a place to grow, experiment, learn, and share—all with the goal of producing exceptional orchids and encouraging a deeper appreciation for them.