Problem Buying Orchids Online

[kavanaru]

Hi Graham,
I posted this thread that think would be of help for you in the future...
Orchids Vendors Database

[Graham]

kavanaru, "Thank you"... It didn't even enter my mind to check for terms and conditions...after Amazon.co.uk, I've become too used to a reliable service without hidden problems or pitfalls (as experienced with Regal Orchids).

You're right, there might not be much chance of getting money back...however, I'm still going to try; it's not like they went out of their way to stipulate that they'd replace the plants at their whim... It's like politicians who bury 'awkward legislation' so it's less likely to be objected... I would not have bothered to purchase from Regal Orchids if this had been made clear.

The question is, is it the fault of the customer or is it the fault of the vendor? One thing's for certain, Regal Orchids reputation hasn't come out too well.

The orchid has arrived and I've had it posted back...however, before I sent it, I had a look to see how well they packaged it; I thought it might be useful for comparison for others on Orchid Board, who are looking to purchase orchids over the internet.

[quiltergal]

Actually it looks kind of cute. By the size of the flowers compared to the packing peanuts it's probably a mini of some sort. It also looks like it has a branching infloresence. I'd be very tempted to keep this one. Just my .

[camille1585]

I would keep it as well. It's looks like one of those multiflora phals (that I go over because they are so cute). I like the color of it too. Looks like a noid I was tempted to buy not too long ago.
Send it my way if you don't like it!!! I'm even going to London next month, so..........

[shakkai]

I'm sure there was a tag in the pot saying what the name was, I wouldn't expect any orchid nursery would ship something NOID.

[Graham]

Err...too late, it's on its way back to Scotland...no matter what it looked like, on principle the customer service was not really acceptable to warrant ignoring.

But, wait until you see the photos of the replacement...and it comes from a well-known supermarket in the UK, beginning with T and ending in esco.

Considering they've got so many other things to think about, Tesco have really done their homework...the presentation is superb and the growing instruction are printed brilliantly on the back of the packaging...

Photos will be uploaded shortly.

[shakkai]

Can't wait to see the photo, Graham... I was just at Tesco today, and had a look at their Phals. None came home with me though... Hopefully you've seen some of the Phals that follow me home from my local Sainsbury's.

[Graham]

Here's the photos of the Phalaenopsis from Tesco

Note...no packing chips because it was an in-store item, not a home-delivery.

[Graham]

UPDATE on Regal Orchids

While my initial experience of Regal Orchids has been a negative one of poor communication from the seller; to his credit, on receiving the orchid (which I couriered back to him), I have received a full refund.

[kavanaru]

Originally Posted by Graham

While my initial experience of Regal Orchids has been a negative one of poor communication from the seller; to his credit, on receiving the orchid (which I couriered back to him), I have received a full refund.

well, I would say that's a very BIG Plus point for them!