Before buying an orchid, inspect the plant carefully for any signs of pests and diseases. A healthy orchid will have medium-green leaves, new growth and white roots. Avoid plants that seem sick or dying, since they may be infested with pests or diseases that can be transmitted to other orchids or houseplants.
Orchids are generally priced according to their size. Be aware that seedling orchids may not bloom for several years, so you may want to
purchase a larger plant that will bloom sooner.
Sources
Orchids can be purchased at retail garden centers, mass merchandisers, orchid nurseries and by mail order catalog. Orchid shows are an excellent source for plants. The plants are usually healthy and vendors are eager to share cultural information and growing tips. Many excellent reference books on how to grow and care for orchids are available. Local orchid clubs and societies are excellent sources for information.
Oncidium (on-SID-ee-um), or Dancing Lady Orchids are more difficult to grow than Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum or Cattleya orchids, but their abundant sprays of yellow flowers make them worth the effort . Oncidiums are becoming increasingly popular as new and easy-togrow hybrids are developed. Some of the new hybrids include Oncidium Grower Ramsey, Oncidium Sweet Sugar and Oncidium Taka. The genus Oncidium includes about 600 species of epiphytic plants that are native to the New World Tropics.
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Paphiopedilum
Paphiopedilum (paf-ee-oh- PED-ih-lum), or Slipper Orchid, is also an excellent choice for the beginner. Themost unusual, yet beautiful flowers in the orchid family can be found in this genus of nearly 60 species. They originate within a range from Northern India to Southern
China and Southeast Asia and the Philippines.
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Phalaenopsis (Fal-en-OPsiss), or Moth Orchid, is the most popular and one of the easiest plants for beginners. Most of the 44 species in this genus originate from the Philippines. They range in color from white, pink, yellow and red to green. They may also be striped or
spotted. Phalaenopsis, also called phals, send up long, arching sprays that may contain as many as 20 to 30 blooms. They are long-blooming plants, sometimes blooming for up to four months.
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While most cut flowers are currently imported from out-of-state producers, Oklahoma growers can substantially contribute to and profit from the production and marketing of cut flowers. Greenhouse or garden centers could diversify their operations with cut flowers, depending upon proper care of the flowers and establishment of a market. Since Oklahoma is centrally located in the U.S. and has two major airports, increased production of cut flowers could be warranted. Therefore, establishing care and handling guidelines is critical to the success of cut flower production in Oklahoma. Below is basic information which may be useful to growers, wholesalers, retailers, and ultimately the consumers.
Since water quality and growing, harvesting, and storing conditions vary considerably, it is important to first test any changes in procedures on a small scale. Whether a firm is growing or importing cut flowers, periodic tests of the vase life of the flowers should be conducted to assure that vase life is adequate. Flowers may look acceptable, but may not last as long as possible.
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The most common mistake beginning orchid growers make when choosing their first orchid is to purchase the showiest plant.
Unfortunately, the showiest orchids are often the most difficult to grow. Four of the most popular orchids are Cattleyas, Phalaenopsis,
Paphiopedilums and Oncidiums. These orchids are not only beautiful, but they are among the easiest to grow.
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Viruses
Unfortunately, viruses are very difficult to identify. The most common symptoms are deformed flowers, streaking foliage, veinal discoloration, yellowing, stunted growth and death. Viruses cannot be cured. Any orchid with a virus should be destroyed to prevent
its spread to other plants. Viruses may be prevented by keeping the growing area clean, using sterile pots and growing media, sterilizing all
pruning instruments and keeping your plants free of aphids, since they can transmit viruses.
Pest Control
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a program designed to minimize (not eliminate) the use of chemical controls in the environment. IPM is not only a benefit to the environment, but it is also economically beneficial, since chemical pesticides and fungicides are often expensive. The success of IPM relies on frequent monitoring and inspection of plants. By carefully monitoring and inspecting, most pests and diseases can be identified at a manageable stage; therefore, the need for potent chemicals is eliminated or reduced. Once a pest or disease has been identified, the first response is to handpick the insect, or cut away diseased tissue. Traps, soaps and oils are the second alternative. The last resort recommended would be the use of botanical pesticides/ fungicides and then chemical pesticides/fungicides.
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