Labelling methods

[peeweelovesbooks]

So. As I was watering my orchids this week, I noticed (with some horror) that the labels were fading. I buy the plastic ones and I label everything with a sharpie marker. In light of the fact that my orchid collection seems to multiply seemingly without my help, I am in search of a new, and hopefully more permanent method of labeling.

I have all of the orchids listed in a database, so I know all the information on the ones I have. I went online and found some company that makes stainless steel labels and they aren't that expensive (like 45.00 for 500) Anyway, do any of you use metal labels? Would the stainless steel leech onto the medium?

what method(s) do you use to label your chids? thanks for the input. I have to get this under control because I have so many plants. Thanks.

[Kyle]

Use Sakura Identi Pen. They don't fade like sharpes.

Also Fabri Castel makesa really good one (better tips, IMHO) can't remember the name of the top of my head. Theres is eraseable (really!). Permenant and eraseable.

Both should be available at artist supply places.

Yes, I know pencil is an option, but it smudges.

Kyle

[Ross]

I haven't tried this yet, but I have several sheets of them -> Product Listing - Plant Labels - White, sheet of 10. I plan to try them as soon as I get to it

[Oscarman]

I am using a Brother P-touch label maker with black on clear tape. It allows 2 lines with a maximum of 59 characters.

Pros:
- 100% durable with no fading or peeling
- tape width fits plastic plant tag
- extremely easy to read
- label seems to make plastic plant tag more durable

Cons:
- rolls of labels are a little expensive (but nothing is more costly than a great plant without legible parentage!)
- a bit time consuming to typing the label
- some label makers waste up to 1/2" of blank label material at the beginning and/or the end of each label you make. Solution: Check that you can adjust the setting before you buy.

Here is some samples of mine.

[adlemsi]

I was thinking of using my p-touch to print labels and put them on the pots instead. That way I save some $$ on the plant tags.

[karren]

Great idea! I already have the ptouch labeler. I think that I'll print 2 of each, one for the label, another for the pot (back up).

[Des]

I use an HB pencil it never fades and lasts for ever

[Oscarman]

Originally Posted by Ross

I haven't tried this yet, but I have several sheets of them -> Product Listing - Plant Labels - White, sheet of 10. I plan to try them as soon as I get to it

I like this idea.....plant tags that go through a laser printer - outstanding!

Another alternative is to buy full sheets of clear labels in the 8 1/2" x 11" size and set up a template to fit your needs.

I don't know how durable they are. I have the sheets and a laser printer, so I'll have to give it a try.

[Don Perusse]

I like Oscarman's idea of using clear tape...I would think typing is no problem if the last so long. I personally use a pencil w/wht plastic tags and never had a problem. I don't think I would put on pot as I reuse when up-sizing, unless they come off easily.

[adlemsi]

The p-touch labels should come off easily. I use them to label binders, which we reuse, and I've never had a problem removing them. Sometimes they leave some stickiness but you can wipe it off with windex.