Northwest Orchid Society

Two years ago The Madre and I went to the NWOS’ Annual show since we were developing an interest and love for these beautiful plants but were finding the same ol’ same ol’ at the places we were typically buying our orchids. We were blown away by the displays and ended up buying a number of not yet blooming plants (so much cheaper than buying one in flower!). We agreed that we should get a membership.
One year later, a less thrilling but still fruitful Annual Show and we still don’t have memberships.
Fast forward to Madre’s Day and me trying to find something fun for my Ma that we can do together… Ah yes, the NWOS Membership.
Annual membership is $ 25 for a single membership or $ 30 for a joint membership (which counts for two people living in the same household). They have monthly meetings, usually on the 2^nd Monday of the month. The meetings generally feature informative programs, orchid exhibits, plant raffles and sales, and auctions. They have repotting and culture clinics throughout the year.
They maintain a library of of orchid books, videotapes, and periodicals available for member use and the NWOS publishes in the Newsletter the names of members willing to receive telephone inquiries regarding orchid problems! That’s a total score for someone like me who has managed to keep most of her orchids alive, but needs help with getting them to bloom or occasionally dealing with sick plants.
I’ll be going to my first official meeting next month, but had the chance to attend the Annual Potluck bbq yesterday. People brought a side dish and any plants they would like to sell or give-​away. Though I only intended to buy one new orchid to replace a recent «fallen soldier» (hey man, they joke that you can’t be an orchid expert ’til you’ve killed 1000 of ‘em), but ended up buying one new plant (for $ 7!!) and having 3 others given to me. Not only did I walk away with an armful of orchids, I met some helpful and friendly people who seemed excited by the presence of a young un’ (yeah, I was the youngest «member» there) and the opportunity to pass on their knowledge.
Yay for embracing the noobs!