It is my understanding,that Orchid seedlings, based on the species, will mature enought to bloom in 5 to 7 years. Is there an information source that lists the average time frames for the various orchid species? Is there a list of orchid species that mature enough to bloom in 2 years or less? I have an interest in buying some seedlings, but would like to find some that don't require so many years to bloom. As always, regards to all you orchid lovers.
You are correct. They are all different. Seedlings will vary even withing the same batch. Also, it depends on your cultural conditions. It is really not cut and dry, but we do know that some varieties, as adults, grow faster and are more vigorous than others. Also some are more reluctant to bloom than others.
I'd go with a relatively easy to bloom variety and try to avoid the ones that are notoriously picky. Start with some Laelia, Encyclia, or Epidendrum.
Royal thanks for the response and I agree that culture and variances within a batch of seedlings exist. I am talking about averages. Almost every statistic, at least in the plant world is based on the assumption of ideal conditions and the average seedling growth. If this wasn't the case the orchid books wouldn't give you an average of 5-7 years without a million caveats. I am looking for averages and at the low end/shortest times. Being patient with seedlings is great when you are young. At my age I'd like to be around when they bloom and not be to feeble physically or mentally to enjoy it.
Though I only have 1 in my collection, Coryanthes are rumored to have a seed to flower time of 2 years in some cases. You might want to check out some of these bizzare plants if you looking simply for speed. Other than that, I would say 3-5 years on average for most orchids. It seems like 5-7 is a bit long for the entire group. Just my 2cents.
Phalaenopsis are among the fastest orchids to reach flowering size. I believe in ideal conditions 18months to 2 years.
Though I believe it can be faster. I have seen on this forum Kieki flowering