Orchid sales surge as home gardeners seek low maintenance blooms for the holidays

Holiday shoppers looking for a floral centerpiece that lasts longer than a bouquet of roses are turning to orchids. The plants, once considered difficult to keep alive, are now widely available at low prices and are blooming for months in standard home environments.

Prices for these plants have dropped sharply. It is common to find them for less than $15. At one garden center in Southampton, staff report selling 40 or 50 orchids in just a few days. The shop sells out its stock quickly and cannot keep up with customer demand.

The shift in popularity is driven by the ease of growing three specific types. Dendrobiums are the most ubiquitous in the market. They produce long-lasting sprays of blooms in many colors, with lavender varieties being the most common. Modern hybrids range from standard plants that grow up to 24 inches tall to miniatures that are only 8 inches high. These miniatures are suitable for windowsills.

Phalaenopsis, also known as moth orchids, are gaining popularity due to their simple care requirements. They are considered the best houseplant orchids for beginners. They require similar growing conditions to African violets. In a bright, southeast-facing window, these plants can bloom for three to four months. The flowers appear in pastel colors, including white, pink, yellow, and striped varieties.

The third major variety is the oncidium, or dancing-lady orchid. These plants feature sprays of predominantly yellow flowers. Breeders are now developing medium-sized blooms in autumn colors such as mahogany, red, and orange. They are increasingly available in local stores.

Local experts advise buying from specialty growers rather than mass merchandisers. More than a dozen specialty orchid growers are based in Long Island. These shops offer higher quality plants and staff who can answer specific care questions. While holiday supplies are strong, rarer plants may be harder to find. Shoppers should look for plants that are just starting to bloom or have well-formed buds to ensure the longest flower life.

When selecting a plant, buyers should check for firm, succulent leaves and pseudobulbs. The plant should sit securely in the pot. Fresh, white roots with green tips are a good sign of health. Buyers should avoid plants with wrinkled leaves or those that are loosely packed in the pot. A single bloom can remain in peak form for two weeks. With proper care, the entire plant can continue to flower for six to eight weeks while new buds open.

For those hesitant to try orchids, a 24-year-old book titled "Orchid Growing for Wimps" by Ellen Zachos remains a recommended guide. The author describes the book as a companion for people who feel intimidated by the plants. It provides the basic knowledge needed to keep the flowers alive and reblooming.