PLANT enthusiasts, gardeners and families looking for a relaxing day out are invited to the annual Fairway Orchid and Rare Plant Fair at Fairway in Durban North on Saturday, August 1.

Now in its 13th year, the fair has become a much-anticipated event on the local gardening calendar, attracting visitors from across Durban and beyond.

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Founder Melanie van Greunen said the event was created because Durban needed a plant fair, and it has continued to grow each year.

“When we started about 13 years ago, Durban needed something like this. Over the years it’s grown into the Fairway Orchid and Rare Plant Fair, and we’ve introduced a wide range of exotic plants. It’s become quite a highlight for plant lovers,” she said.

Visitors can browse an extensive selection of plants, including orchids, cycads, Venus flytraps, cacti and South African bulbs, while a variety of vendors will showcase their collections and garden-related products.

“There will be lots of different plants, beautiful displays from our vendors, pots, driftwood and something for every garden lover. We also have a new vendor specialising in South African bulbs.”

Around 20 traders are expected to exhibit on the day, including Plantae, which has travelled from Brits to the fair since its inception and has become one of its iconic exhibitors. Visitors can also pre-order plants through the vendor’s website before the event.

Adding a new dimension this year will be three vintage and antique vendors.

The Natal Orchid Society will host a display in the conference room, where visitors can learn more about orchids, interact with members, sign up to join the society and stand a chance to win plants in a raffle.

Two potting demonstrations will also take place at 11:30 and 13:00.

Van Greunen said the fair attracts people from all walks of life.

Nature meets community

“It’s a lovely, relaxed day out where people can socialise. We see young and old enjoying the fair. After Covid, people have been more mindful of their spending, but it’s wonderful to see almost everyone leaving with a plant or something small to spoil themselves.”

She added that one of the highlights each year is seeing familiar faces return to support the event and its vendors.

“It’s always lovely to see old faces coming back and supporting the vendors.”

The venue is wheelchair friendly, with ample parking on an open field at the property. The restaurant at Fairway, 118 on Fairway, will be open from 07:00 to 16:00.

The Fairway Orchid and Rare Plant Fair takes place on Saturday, August 1, at 118 Fairway, Durban North. Gates open at 09:00 and close at 16:00. Entry is R30 for adults and R20 for seniors.

Those interested in exhibiting as vendors can contact Shaun Wallis on 082 807 5030 or Melanie van Greunen on 083 456 0178.

Email reservation@fairwaydurban.co.za for details.

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