Each fall NOS holds an orchid plant sale. This is the society’s largest fund-raising event of the year. In the spring, members divide and repot their orchids at “potting parties” and donate plants to the society for the sale. Volunteers care for the orchids all summer.

Raffle tickets for orchid baskets and blooming plants are sold to customers in line to raise additional money. The sale hours are noon to 3pm, but many times the plants have sold before closing time. It’s a good idea to come before noon, the line starts early.

Many genera of orchids are available at the sale. Cattleyas, dendrobiums, phalaenopsis, vandas, oncidiums and others are available. Most are potted, a few are mounted and some are bare-root and need potting. All are healthy plants. It is best to get to the sale early for the best choices. Other plants may be offered as well.

Many plants for sale are not in bloom but members of the society are present to offer information about the care and growing habits of the plants. Culture sheets about each genus are available at the sale. These publications are from the American Orchid Society and explain what each genus needs as far as light, watering, fertilizing and general care.

2:35pm at the 2009 Orchid Sale. The sale was almost over, only a few plants left after the sale had been open for a little over two and a half hours.

12:12pm at the 2009 Orchid Sale. The doors had been open for twelve minutes.