Buying more orchids

[rbarata]

It would seem these store bought orchids are full of problems.

That is a problem only for us, final costumers.
Orchid nurseries use many potting materials which are not recomended to us because we want our plants to live for several years.
They do it to make sure the plants survive the, sometimes long, "journey" since they are sent to the vendor until they are bought by us.
Usually they use water rententive materials to avoid plants dehydration in the stores. Sometimes they take so much time to be sold giving time for this medium to degrade up to the point of rot.

[Optimist]

Originally Posted by Sonicles

It would seem these store bought orchids are full of problems.

I totally agree. People at grocery/big box stores know nothing about orchids. You get the best plants from an honest, caring grower.

---------- Post added at 03:12 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:09 PM ----------

I do not know who the growers are out there in the UK, but doing things like joining an orchid club, or attending an orchid sale and show will give you a good insight into what is available, and who is selling. It's like any kind of interest or hobby.

[Sonicles]

Yes rbarata - you are right of course. I'm sure these plants had been in the store for about a month in a perspex box. I guess they are only mean't to last the 28 days of the guarantee. I'm so glad I found it though. I just hope my plant is not too stressed Thank you.
Optimist - appreciate your comments. I have been looking for a local orchid group but have not found one as yet. I think I have found a reasonable grower/supplier where I am going to buy one or maybe two plants, just to give me some more practical experience and to take my mind of my poor little store bought phal lol. I will take good care of her but I think it might be a long journey. Many thanks for your support.