The Daily Dig

Hey plant lovers, garden geeks and epiphytic freaks, word on the street is that Saturday, June 5th is the date for this years San Francisco Epiphyllum Society Show and Sale, so if you've been looking for a gardening field trip, a new addition to your garden or if you're a die hard epiphytic enthusiast you won't want to miss this annual event.

These orchid cacti blooms are large, they come in bold colors and are unforgettably amazing. There will be many blossom's on display from the members collections that will WOW you beyond belief. Most will also have cuttings from the plants in bloom, I've even heard that society member Don Cravahlo will have several tables with loads and loads of amazing plants for sale, so be sure to be on the look out for Don.

The SF "Epie" society has been cultivating and promoting interest in these incredible plants for years and actively trade cuttings, seeds and tips at their seven yearly meetings. Membership to the society is an incredibly low $12/year, and the group meets in the San Francisco County Fair Building, right next to SF Botanic Gardens in GG Park.

So what comes with the price of membership you might ask?: Two flower shows a year, one in May and the other in June, four journals a year, cutting exchanges, raffles, special guest speakers, programs, and show and tell discussions.

Here are a few Epiphyllum facts:

• "Epies" can be grown from seed but it takes forever. Better to befriend a hobbyist and beg for a cutting. (or join the Society)
• Use plastic pots instead of clay, and label your pot with the plant's name.
• They need shade, but not too much shade.

• They're tropical plants -- don't let them dry out!

• If you get good at growing them you can have blooms during the greater part of the year.

So grab a gardening buddy, friend or neighbor and head over and join the San Francisco Epiphyllum Society for a show and sale you won't want to miss.

When: Saturday, June 5th, 2010 10am - 3pm
Where: San Francisco County Fair Building Auditorium 9th and Lincoln

For more info contact Society President Mike Davis at 650-873-4443 or member Mary Crowell at 650-341-6963