Compared to a bouquet of daisies, buying an orchid is not cheap. On the other hand, many orchids, if grown properly, will have blooms that will outlast any bouquet of fresh cut flowers. Buying the right orchid presents some challenges for the novice. This article will shed some light on this misty subject.

There are millions of different types of orchids. They are found naturally throughout the world. Some are ugly (to be honest), but many more are impressive. The novice can get lost in the diversity of orchids but let’s look at the most common commercial orchid. the phaleonopsis. Also known as the Moth Orchid, it is most commonly seen in its white form with an arching inflorescence (stem) in architecture and design magazines. Not limited to white, Phals (that’s what hardcore orchid lovers call them) come in red, yellow, pink, purple, burgundy and an incredible selection of combinations, patterns and spots. They also vary considerably in size. They are native to Southeast Asia and have been cultivated for hundreds of years. Selective breeding and hybridization have given us plants that are better and easier to grow than their jungle cousins.

When it comes to buying one, there are a few things to consider.


1. Buy from a reputable supplier. Large commercial greenhouses and big box stores may not be the best place to buy orchids. They usually buy from overseas growers and ship them in bulk. From being frozen on airport tarmacs to being ignored for weeks in a warehouse, plants may have been under terrible stress. They may look fine, but they may very well be dead within a few weeks.

Most urban areas in North America and Europe (indeed, all over the world) have local orchid societies. Many of these have monthly gatherings and frequent orchid shows where local vendors display their wares. These are the best places to find orchids. It’s like a farmers market. In fact, you can talk to someone who has been caring for that plant for months or years. The plant is more likely to be healthy and happy and ready to give you a great show for a long time to come.

2. Buy a healthy plant. The plant can look great on top of the pot. Your flowers and leaves may look fine, but that’s not the best way to check the health of the plants. Checking the roots of plants is a great way to see if they are healthy. If you take the plant out of the pot and see a nice network of strong, fleshy roots (they should look like pipe cleaners), then it’s a happy plant. This technique has two problems. First of all, vendors may not be too keen on letting you remove the pot from your plant (many will lift the plant for you if you ask them nicely). And second, if the plant is blooming, you can damage it and it will lose the flowers in a few days or hours. Let discretion be your guide.

So buying orchids does not have to be scary. There is a wide variety to choose from and if you select a healthy plant from a reputable dealer (who can also give advice on its care) then you are well on your way to enjoying these exotic wonders.

There are many ways to find local providers. One of the best is the vendor database that can be searched at www.ravenvision.ca or check your local horticultural center for information on local societies and shows.

Happy growth.

One last warning: Orchids are like crack. They are easily addictive. Once you buy one and get it to bloom, you can be hooked. In no time, every window sill in your house will be filled with plants. Do not say I did not warn you.