Orchid Show Newbie

[ramboa]

Hi all! I am going to my first orchid show end of July and while I am not planning on purchasing anything, I’m not making any promises haha. I was wondering if anyone had any advice for buying plants at shows? Is it worth it for a newbie to pick up a plant there? Is there more of a markup? And of course any tips welcome, not just related to purchasing!

[neophyte]

this is not an answer (sorry), but i also live in the bay area and i was wondering what show you are going to. is it a local show? thanks

[fishmom]

Absolutely it is a good place to get plants. You will see varieties that are hard to find otherwise, and the vendors actually know about growing their plants and can talk to you about what is required for culture. Prices are fair, and at the end of the show there are often good mark-downs available, as vendors don't want to have to ship things home. The quality is usually very good, as the customers tend to be more knowledgeable than the run-of-the -mill grocery/big box customer. Go for it!

[ramboa]

Originally Posted by neophyte

this is not an answer (sorry), but i also live in the bay area and i was wondering what show you are going to. is it a local show? thanks

No need to apologize! Orchids in the Park at Golden Gate Park in the city July 20 & 21st

---------- Post added at 10:26 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:24 PM ----------

Originally Posted by fishmom

Absolutely it is a good place to get plants. You will see varieties that are hard to find otherwise, and the vendors actually know about growing their plants and can talk to you about what is required for culture. Prices are fair, and at the end of the show there are often good mark-downs available, as vendors don't want to have to ship things home. The quality is usually very good, as the customers tend to be more knowledgeable than the run-of-the -mill grocery/big box customer. Go for it!

Thank you so much!! I do look forward to being able to ask questions to the vendors directly, that will be a big plus. Also good if I do take one or two or five home

[DeaC]

Hello. Don't know what your experience is with orchids but the first thing to know is what your growing environment is. Light exposure(natural or otherwise,meaning growlights), general temps in that area,dryness or humidity concerns and overall space that you can provide. With that in mind, a showplace of plants and vendors is the perfect spot to be to ask advice and hopefully be directed to plants that meet your situation. Also reading up on species that interest you is never a wasted moment. Have fun and good luck. Wish I could attend!

[Roberta]

Shows are absolutely the best place to get plants. You will see much more variety than you'll see anyplace else, and nearly all the vendors are also the growers so do feel free to ask questions. There's a terrific line-up of vendors for that show.

[Paul]

Rather than reiterate good info that already exists, I suggest you start by reading through the posts here: An Orchid Buyer's Guide for Beginners

[ramboa]

Originally Posted by Paul

Rather than reiterate good info that already exists, I suggest you start by reading through the posts here: An Orchid Buyer's Guide for Beginners

Thank you! And thank you all for the helpful advice!