Carlos Macku received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Universidad Simon Bolivar, Caracas, Venezuela.  He continued his education by earning his graduate degrees in Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry from the University of California at Davis.  He has lived in Somerset County and cared for an orchid plant collection under residential growing conditions for over 25 years.  He has published his horticultural experiences in journals such as Orchids and Orchid Digest, and has lectured on orchid plants and their care at local garden clubs and orchid societies.