First visit to orchid show - what to expect?

[Dimples]

I love Balboa but we’ll have to visit another time. I can use PTO whenever but my SO is on a teacher schedule and time off is a lot more work for him. I used to live down off the 56 so went much more often, our third date was at the Fleet.

Andy’s will have to wait for another day. If I tried to fit them both into the same weekend there’d be no budget anymore. I’d buy everything!

[Roberta]

Andy has open houses every few months... there will likely be another one in June, watch the website.

[plantbuddy]

I am so excited for you!!! Be prepared to be overwhelmed.
Since our local orchid show has been cancelled, for the third year now, I'll be rooting for you vicariously. Enjoy.

[Leafmite]

I learned that if I see an orchid I do not recognize, to look it up online before buying it so I can be certain that I have the right growing conditions. Then again, I tend to have trouble controlling my impulses when I am suddenly surrounded by orchids.

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by Leafmite

I learned that if I see an orchid I do not recognize, to look it up online before buying it so I can be certain that I have the right growing conditions. Then again, I tend to have trouble controlling my impulses when I am suddenly surrounded by orchids.

As a species nut, I have IOSPE bookmarked and set up as an icon on my phone. Makes it easy to check species info while at a show - country and elevation info usually tell me what I need to know to make the judgement. For hybrids a bit tougher... orchidroots.com lets you look up the parentage, that can give some clues.

[Dimples]

I appreciate all of the continued tips and suggestions. If you think of more, lay ‘em on me!

Thanks for the info on IOSPE. Orchidroots.com is great, I visit it frequently. I’m a look-it-up before buying type too. No sense bringing a plant home to certain death, and I’m not willing to go to extreme measures modifying my environment so a plant will be happy.

I’m so excited!!

[camille1585]

If there are some specific plants that you are after, many vendors will allow for pre-orders that you pay online and then pick up at the show. I like to browse the websites beforehand to see if they have anything interesting. Even if I don't pre-order, I at least know which vendors I find more interesting to visit first.

[SouthPark]

Originally Posted by Dimples

I'd love to hear your thoughts and suggestions, even if it's as simple as "go when it's convenient and enjoy yourself," but any insights would be very appreciated.

That's about it really. A digital camera (preferably one with some optical zoom if needed) - and some cash, and just observe what everybody is generally doing. And just take lots of pics.

[lobotomizedgoat]

Originally Posted by Roberta

Just in case you have not completely blown your budget at the show, Andy's Orchids is also having an Open House the same weekend. But that's another adventure entirely.

I'm considering going to both, but I'm not sure whether my wallet can survive.

[Dimples]

Originally Posted by lobotomizedgoat

I'm considering going to both, but I'm not sure whether my wallet can survive.

I am quite sure mine would not survive. The good news is Andy’s will be at the show so I’ll get to see and possibly buy some of his plants. Not the same as going to the nursery, but show patrons won’t miss out entirely. At least that’s what I’m telling myself.