Free virused orchid

[katsucats]

Okay, I don't know where to post this or even whether to post this. All I know is I've come into possession of virused orchids from time to time. They look completely healthy. But they have CymMV or ORSV, tested twice. There are also people on this board and elsewhere who claim not to care about viruses. Usually I throw them away, but that's $50 down the drain.

So I have a Phalaenopsis amabilis Irian Jaya type from Norman's Orchids that tested positive for CymMV. I know for a fact that Norman would not take it back. In fact, he would probably throw a fit if I took it back, and I'd get nowhere. I'm in the Los Angeles area. If anyone wants a purportedly fragrant amabilis, I'd willing to pass it off for free. Let me know if interested.

[DirtyCoconuts]

You are nice to try and share but I think it is a tough prospect to accept an orchid known to be viruses…..

Now, I might think about trying to find a suitable home outside in nature. I do t know about your area or this plant but if they could work, that would be a nice win

[katsucats]

I'm uncomfortable about giving away virused plants, but I do recall a number of members here saying they're fine with it if it's showing no symptoms. I bought this for $45 + tax last week. If someone doesn't take it off me I'm tossing it like I usually do. I could resell it like every other vendor out there, but that would be really unethical in my book.

[wisdomseeker]

I've got the uppermost respect for your integrity (upfront and honest).

That's a true shame about the virus, but at least you were on top of your game by testing it twice.

I don't think anyone likes having to toss $45 plus into the compost bin. If I had the extra space indoors, I would take you up on your offer (especially knowing beforehand about the virus, then I would definitely be able to plan accordingly).

[DirtyCoconuts]

note- please do NOT compost a virused plant- that could spread it

toss it in the fire if no one has a remote spot for it

[wisdomseeker]

Good point!

I should have used a better nonliteral/figurative term (I am very hungry vs. I could eat a horse) instead of using "compost pile" for tossing away $45

[DirtyCoconuts]

I knew what you meant I just had a horrible nightmare vision of this poor soul spreading the virus around!

[Leafmite]

Good luck! I hope you will find a good home for it. Maybe you could give it to someone who doesn't have other house plants.

[BrassavolaStars]

Originally Posted by Leafmite

Good luck! I hope you will find a good home for it. Maybe you could give it to someone who doesn't have other house plants.

This has always been what I want to do. Of course I’ll mention the plant’s condition but I think this is the most humane way to deal with virus plants. I hate throwing away plants.

I learned the NYBG just composts all their plants at the orchid show when they finish with them. That really bothers me. I’ve also seen orchid vendors throw away trash cans full of Phals because they got sunburn. That also really upset me.

As of now, I have a virus room in my house separate from my other plants. I’m sure there’s more in my greenhouse but I have too many to test.

[Desdinova]

Is this still available? Because if it is, color me interested!