Found a nursery with orchids. They had lost their damned minds as well

[JungleMel]

I'm guessing you're nowhere near driving distance of Clown Alley Orchids? That's too bad, as much as I have to order the specific plants I'm looking for at this point, nothing beats going to a show or greenhouse and picking out what you want. Maybe get a hotel for the next orchid society show, they're usually worth the time and you can usually do some haggling if you're buying more than one thing and get some good prices. Not that it's so much about the prices, but the experience of picking out your orchid.

You all complaining about the NYBG show/gift shop prices! You are supporting a botanical garden when you make purchases at the shop, I know they are way overpriced, but it's not like your money is going to one persons business or pocket. Consider it a donation more than anything else, and remeber you are supporting a botanical garden while donations for places like this have been down since the economy has. The NYBG, the bronx zoo, coney island aquarium, you're supporting these ventures when you buy from the gift shop.

[Orchid Whisperer]

The price is determined by supply & demand. If the vendor prices a blooming orchid for $30 and people buy it, they will sell it again for that price, or a bit more. If it does not sell, maybe the next time it will be priced at $20 to $25.

I know one orchid grower personally, I know that blooming plant prices vary somewhat based on the prospective buyer & the price they think they can get. Remember, their goal is to sell, make money, support their families.

For you, look on the bright side, you may be able to get those plants at a deep discount once they are finished blooming.

[james mickelso]

I think the best deals are found at the shows. The last day of the show you can get many plants at half price because the seller doesn't want to cart the plants back. Also at the donation tables you can get plants at excellent prices as the sales help the clubs bottom line.