So, I have been on the fence about writing these reviews for the plants that I have received; however, I feel that I owe it to my orchid community to be honest about what to expect from this 'supplier'.
First, I think it's EXTREMELY important for everyone to know that this orchid supplier is NOT and orchid grower. Essentially, this is an orchid 'drop shipping' company. He does not personally grow the orchids that he advertises... he's an importer and a broker. Nothing more. Therfore, he doesn't personally invest any time into their health, nor is he knowledgeable about what is required for each orchid that he advertises. I received this orchid in extremely poor health. First, it was growing VERY LOOSELY in a plastic cup that could barely stand up on its own, within SOIL; yes... that's correct... soil. It was not in proper orchid mix, and there were hardly any roots to speak of.
Additionally, I received two separate growths, not one plant with x2 growths (which is what is usually required to ensure that the orchid will survive... most will eventually die when they only have the one growth)
I have gone ahead and potted them up in proper Paph. Orchid media, and have placed them within my orchid 'ICU' chamber. Hopefully they will survive... but I'm not getting my hopes up too high.
Orchid growers need to be EXTREMELY wary of ordering plants (especially orchids that won't let you know that they're sick until they're just about ready to die), from someone that doesn't personally invest any time into growing them.
He will not be privy to what that plant requires. He's not aware of the actual conditions of each plant, or if he really should be selling them at all; you will never know what type of quality you're going to get from this supplier. (I did receive one very nice specimen from him, which I will properly review as well)... but, for the most part, it's going to be a guessing game as to the quality that you're going to receive.
I am more than happy to provide photos of what I received, to anyone that is interested.
I would highly advise any and all growers to invest their money into a reputable orchid grower and supplier, such as Crystal Star, or Roehampton. The prices might be slightly cheaper here, however, as the old saying goes... 'You Get What You Pay For'... and that certainly rings true with this supplier. Buy at your own risk.
