Annual festival showcases rare plant

The Tamiami International Orchid Festival is taking place over two days this month.

More than 50 local and international orchid societies will be selling and displaying hundreds of plants. They will also be competing with one another in a judged show that will award $5,000 in cash prizes, and the general public is invited to submit their orchids for judging. The best in each class also receives a ribbon, while other titles include Grand and Reserve Champion and People's Choice Champion.

In addition, classes are set to be offered in both English and Spanish. Topics will include orchid culture and the history of the plant. Some of the speakers who are confirmed for this year's festival include Carlos Segrera (who will discuss cultivation), Hyla Levine (talking about basic care), Dr. Aaron Palmateer (diseases) and Sandi Jones (fertilizers).

Guests can also participate in the grand prize raffle, with everyone receiving a free ticket with admission.

Growers from various areas, including nearby communities such as Hialeah, will no doubt be looking forward to attending this show. To ensure they know about it, organizers may have invested in flyer printing services.

The Tamiami International Orchid Festival will be held at the Dade County Fairgrounds Expo Center from January 23 to 24. Tickets are $10 or $16 for both days. To learn more, visit the event website.