I have Phals but want to try others, Any suggestions?

[Happiness1967]

OK, let me start by saying I am fighting a case of Mealy bugs but as soon as I get these %$#@@ bugs gone, I was thinking of getting some different orchids besides Phals. I am pretty new to orchids but have about 20 Phals that are doing well (except for the Mealy Bugs). I would like to get something different but not too hard to grow. LOL What other orchids should I try? I really appreciate the suggestions. Also, what are your thoughts of buying orchids online?

[jeremyinsf]

Where do you live? It's always help to know that (maybe in your profile) so we know what to suggest - some plants work better / worse in certain climates.

Have you tried Paph's (slippers) before?

[kindrag23]

I have to do all of my ordering online. I live in a super small town....I have used....
www.carterandholmesorchids.com
Others have suggested: Andy's Orchids
Kawamoto Orchids is one on ebay that was highly recommended to me I just ordered from them.

---------- Post added at 06:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:50 PM ----------

Where do you live? I can tell you that will help everyone out. Good luck w the bugs.

[Bud]

Your plants brought the bugs with them inside your house. It will be wise to get rid of the bugs before you bring in other plants.
You can have anything you like.
Look at the lists of your favorite seller and look at the flowers and then decide for yourself if you want to grow it.

[kindrag23]

I have a vanilla plantafora(?) Its where you get vanilla extract from. I really like it and it is growing like a weed. I found it on amazon. It was tiny when I got it it has grown around 3 in in 3 weeks already. Good shopping!

[desertanimal]

Originally Posted by Happiness1967

. . . Also, what are your thoughts of buying orchids online?

Go ahead. Everyone does it.

[Leafmite]

Hausermann's, Al's Orchid Greenhouse, Oakhill Gardens....I have ordered from these vendors and received great plants!

[gdupont]

Ascocentrum pumilum from oak hill is one of my all time favorites! Easy grower, but very unique.

[Island Girl]

In addition to what Leafmite suggested, Big Leaf Orchids, Parkside, Louisiana Orchid Connection, Orchid Web, Tropical Orchid Farm.... Umm.. That's all I can add at the moment... I have to order online too, and the ones Leafmite mentioned (all 3) I have also ordered from, as well as the ones I've listed, and they are all great places to get orchids from!!. I have received beautiful, healthy plants from each of these vendors (multiple times, actually). Have heard many good things about Carter & Holmes, and Andys Orchids too, just haven't gotten anything from them.... yet... ....tho, I'm sure that will change very soon.... I might have an orchid problem

[NYCorchidman]

I also recommend lady slippers. Paphiopedilum.
They take pretty similar care as phalaenopsis.
Beautiful leaves (many of them) which make them desirable even without flowers. Many flower often and very long lasting.