American Orchid Society Throws Season’s Biggest Botanical Party at Annual Fall Show, Nov. 21-23 November 20, 2008

Three days of flowers, food and fun will fill the calendar at The American Orchid Society from Nov. 21-23, 2008 during the annual Fall Orchid Show. Visitors to the American Orchid Society can enjoy the following from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. all three days inside the AOS lobby and out in the gardens:

- The perfect holiday décor, gift or inspiration: Hundreds of exquisite orchid plants, orchid supplies and garden art and craft items will be on hand, so shop for the perfect, blooming orchid to complement your home and find the perfect garden accessories to dress up your outdoor living space. - Something for everyone: The show will feature children’s activities, live music, and food and drinks for the whole family. Be sure to enjoy a garden tour as well! - Orchid growers from around the globe: Select from the best orchid growers in Florida, plus Carmela Orchids is flying in from Hakalau, Hawaii. Other attending orchid vendors will be Amazonia Orchids, Carib Plants, Dan & Margie Orchids, Elegant Orchids, Indian River Orchids, Mac’s Orchids & Exotics, Orchid Peddler, Orquiven and Quest Orchids. - Judging and Educational Sessions: American Orchid Society judging will take place on Saturday afternoon; participants must register their plants before 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 22. Would you like to lean to grow better orchids? Ever ask why your orchids never re-bloom? Learn from the experts about orchid culture. Instructors include Greg Allikas, AOS award-winning photographer; Vic Fowler, the Orchid Peddler; Robert Fuchs of RF Orchids; Carol Holdren, AOS judge; and Arlene McGuire, AOS judge. Classes will be held each day at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Nov. 21-23. The cost is included with admission to the show. - Repotting services will be available, starting at $4 per plant. Orchids will be repotted by American Orchid Society volunteers.

Become a member of American Orchid Society at the Fall Orchid Show and receive a free orchid. Join for two years and also receive a free copy of Dr. Martin Motes’ new book, Florida Orchid Growing Month by Month.

Date/Time: Friday-Sunday, Nov. 21-23; 10 am – 4 pm Cost: AOS Members, free; Non-members, $10. Children 12 and younger, FREE. Contact: Valerie Smith, 561-404-2000, VSmith@aos.org., visit www.AOS.org.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN ORCHID SOCIETY: Headquartered in Delray Beach, the nonprofit (501[c][3]) American Orchid Society (AOS) is home to botanical gardens, a greenhouse adorned with blooming orchids that change continuously, the orchid emporium gift shop, reference library/archives, and a staff dedicated to orchid education through classes, lectures and programs.

With nearly 18,000 members around the world, the AOS is one of the largest special-interest horticultural organizations in the world. The AOS Visitors Center and Botanical Garden has also become a popular site for corporate meetings and special events, such as weddings and private parties. The AOS facility and gardens are open to the public daily from 10 am – 4:30 pm. Regular admissions are $10 for adults and free for children under 12. Seniors 65 and older receive $1 off admission. The AOS Botanical Garden is located at 16700 AOS Lane, Delray Beach, FL 33446. For more information, please call 561-404-2000 or visit www.aos.org.

Official Website: http://www.aos.org