The usual suspects...SBOE, Equagenera, SVO, Cal Orchids, Pol Plants, Orchids and Gardens, The Rowland Collection is a small local grower, the Japanese Hoku---Society, that sells the expensive Neos, and several others that are importers. I don't pay attention to the names that don't have big signs.
This is a small show attended by the near- by growers, and is sponsored by a local Cym. Society and the South Coast Plaza. They have had problems with venues the last couple of years, and didn't even anounce it in the local paper this year, so I don't think "Fascination of Orchids" will be around much longer. I would imagine that due to the economy, many of the smaller growers have gone out of business. There are other small shows in driving distance too, but it will be the same vendors so I don't feel the need to drive for an hour to get to them.
Andy's is always my downfall! They always have the booth nearest the entrance, and they all know their orchids, and are honest about what will grow in your environment! They were also doing the Chicago Land show this weekend, where Harry was speaking, so I got Andy (first time I've met him in person), Katrine , and Bill. Andy walked me around the whole display pushing those plants that would grow outdoors,here, and telling me " no" or " iffy" if I asked him about anything else. Katrine has done the same. I guess that's why they have such a good reputation. It helps that they know the area. In any event, if he has something you want, it would be worth a call to see what the price would be if you pre-order, when you know he will be at your local show. I'm starting to feel like a shill!
