Buying 'Chids online? - Orchid Board

KTorchid · #1 03-17-2010, 04:13 PM

I'm relatively new to growing orchids and haven't really figured out where the best place to buy orchids is as I have had mixed results. I have bought three orchids, but only two have made it.

The first one I bought I bought from a store online that seemed really reputable and I found some recommendations for. I chose one that I liked, it was a red catleya, and they mailed it to me. However, when it arrived, it had a lot of brown spots on it and didnt make it. Based on the time of year it came it might have been heat damage.

The other two I got from places were I wouldn't expect the quality to be as good as they are. One i got from Home Depot (I know I was skeptical too) and the other I bought at a farmers market and both have been doing pretty well.

I didn't know if my online experience was just a fluke or if one should always stay away from that. There aren't many nurseries or anything like that around where I live now, so Im not sure if I should try ordering something online again.

Thanks!

Izzie · #2 03-17-2010, 04:51 PM

You might try browsing the "Vendor Feedback" area of this forum.

orkie · #3 03-17-2010, 10:16 PM

I buy tons online, there are many very good vendors, I buy about 25% of my plants online (usually ebay-Kawamoto is awesome!).

WhiteRabbit · #4 03-17-2010, 10:43 PM

there are great online sellers - I'm sure many people will chime in with their favorites. See the current thread re: Oak Hill Oak Hill Gardens
I have gotten plants from Andy's (well only one, but it's great!), Oak Hill. Several on ebay, some very good, some not so much, but haven't had any horrible experiences myself, tho I know some have. You can always ask here on the board about other's experience with specific vendors.

As for buying locally - see if there are any orchid shows in your area

Izzie · #5 03-17-2010, 11:47 PM

The one I've seen the most here, and the most highly praised are: Andy's, C&H, H&R, and Oak Hill.

trdyl · #6 03-18-2010, 02:02 AM

A few others not mentioned yet are Carter and Holmes, Chadwick & Son Orchids, Santa Barbara Orchid Estates, and Tropical Orchid Farm.

peeweelovesbooks · #7 03-18-2010, 07:09 AM

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Well,

I love Big Leaf Orchids for Phalaenopsis, Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, Orchidweb.com, Andy's Orchids.

Haven't had much luck with Orchids by Hausermann though.

Ummmmmmmmmm...I tend to buy from boutique vendors so my feedback is limited to a very narrow category of plants.

KTorchid · #8 03-18-2010, 09:35 AM

thanks so much for all your feedback guys! I'll make sure to look into those vendors. Glad to know that online buying can be fine, they have so many more choices!

Angurek · #9 03-18-2010, 09:52 AM

I buy a lot of orchids online. As far as vendors go, I would recommend Parkside Orchids, R.F. Orchids (though most of their stuff is kinda pricey), Oak Hill Gardens, Andy's (they have almost every species you could ask for), and Orchids by Hausermann.

I've noticed that the plant's condition after shipping depends on the plant itself. Some of the more succulent, harder-leaved orchids tend to pull through just fine, while softer-leaved plants tend to come to you a little more beat-up.

KTorchid · #10 03-18-2010, 12:52 PM

Some of you guys mentioned Orchid Web, and that is actually the place where I ordered mine online and had the problem with it. They were really nice, when I contacted them about the damage they did offer to reimburse me or give it ot me half off if I sent pictures. I just wasn't sure if it was a common problem for that site, but overall you guys find Orchid Web to be reliable?