Election Section

It’s hard to leave this event without at least one orchid. If you’re going to buy, here are some basic tips: 

• Before going on an impulse buying spree, take a quick stroll around the sales area. Chances are that several growers will have similar selections of (and perhaps different prices for) the particular plants you’re interested in.  

• Don’t let a spectacular flower seduce you without finding out something about its needs and care. The sellers will usually tell you candidly if the plant you covet will be happy—and likely to re-bloom—in your home conditions (or your mother-in-law’s).  

• Take advantage of the expertise here among the sellers and other orchid aficionados wandering around. Chat, collect advice and handouts, and make sure you get a tag identifying the species or hybrid you’re purchasing. 

• Use the free “orchid hotel” check area (but don’t lose your claim tag!). You’ll have to park purchases there anyway if you want to go back for another look at the exhibits. 

• Feeling thrifty? Many vendors cut prices Sunday afternoon. That perfect $45 plant you coveted may now be gracing someone else’s windowsill, but a quite suitable sibling might still be had for $15 or $20.  

• Many of the orchid vendors are from the Bay Area and periodically have open houses or special sale events at their greenhouses and nurseries. Ask when they might be open and what they’ll feature for sale in coming months.  

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