We received this bit of information from the Northwest Flower & Garden Show:

In a year where consumer and trade shows alike are reporting double-digit percentage drops in attendance, the Northwest Flower & Garden Show actually grew, according to show founder Duane Kelly. The show, which ran February 18-22 at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, saw 2009 attendance climb to 54,443 – a four percent increase from last year’s attendance of 51,692.

“This is a terrific way to end what has been a fabulous 21-year run,” said Kelly, chairman of Salmon Bay Events. “More importantly, it gives the gardening community some real hope that a new owner will step up to save what is truly a vibrant and beloved event that continues to add to the quality of life we have here in the Pacific Northwest.”

In January, Kelly announced that 2009 would mark his final year as organizer of both the Northwest and San Francisco versions of the Flower & Garden Show, and that both are currently for sale. If Kelly is unable to secure a new owner for both shows, they will cease operations following the show in San Francisco.

This weekend will be the 2009 Yard, Garden & Patio Show in Portland, and it will be interesting to see how things go.