I've gotten a few old rare species clones that were very pricey. But, I couldn't find them anywhere else. It was Alice I've spoken with most. All were pleasant. My biggest complaint...the shipping charges are outrageous.

I have sent a couple of emails to SBOE and have not gotten a response - it sounds like I should call them.

Does anybody know if the Cattleya dowiana aurea they have for sale is the same as the #6 that was posted on here a few days ago by Mauro Rosim? All sizes | Cattleya dowiana var. aurea '#6' | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Thats the one thing I cant do over the phone is verify vs. the image LOL

I know this is an old thread, but.

I read this thread and the other one on L. anceps. I got an email from Wayne who works there stating that L. anceps can be shipped year around maybe two weeks ago. Obviously, I did not hear the said conversation, but what Alice said could have been misinterpreted.

I am not defending Alice, but she has been nice to me, especially lately. In fact she may be a bit too nice over the phone for cranky KY people like myself. We had some issues, and it is possible that she may think I am the one who is condescending :biggrin:

They never told me I should not grow certain things, but certainly I understand what their intention is. Just because you have a driver's license, it does not qualify you to driver a Mercedes or Ferrari. It is up to a consumer what he/she drives, but it is also up to a dealer not to sell. I ride a sportbike, and generally people starting big and dealers who sell something bigger than 600 cc to people with limited experience are frowned upon. Just my two cents.

Yes, their shipping charge is high, but not because they make extra money out of it. Blame the cost on FedEx instead if you wish.

The bottom line is, they have something you cannot buy from other places. It is up to you how wisely you spend your money. I do like mass produced plants, but if that is all you care, SBOE is probably not your best shot. Orchids used to be for the "rich and noble," and I can certainly understand the benefit from vendors' perspective.

I'm surprised by this. I've ordered from SBOE several times and gotten top-notch plants and friendly service. Have spoken to Alice and Wayne, I think.

It's been a few years since I ordered from them, but I always found them to be courteous and professional. I had inquired about a Cym, and they discouraged me from buying it because I may not get it to bloom where I live. I appreciated their honesty.