How are things going with (pot) orchids?
Very well actually, consumer demand continues to be constant, although specialist retailers could respond to it more cleverly. The specialist retailers could try to concentrate on other orchids in a bid to stand out from the big retailers, who sell masses of Phalaenopsis. As far as the consumer is concerned Phalaenopsis is synonymous with orchid, but there are so many more varieties. For example, the Cymbidium, Cambria or Dendrobium Nobile. Clever retailers would do well to focus on these.

What makes (pot) orchids so attractive?
Orchids come in endless numbers of fabulous types and varieties. There are enough different shapes and colours to ensure that there is a plant to satisfy any taste and style. The plant is also long lasting. Eighty percent of the assortment (Phalaenopsis) will retain their looks for twelve weeks. This benefits retailer and consumer alike.

What form does the greatest demand for (pot) orchids take?
There is growing demand for special shapes, e.g. the heart shape. The plant is also season-linked. The yellow ones do well at Easter. People like the pink and white ones for Mothers’ Day. Preferences differ from country to country. France prefers them not to be pink while England loves the pink ones. Germany loves white orchids. As you can see the orchid can cover a huge sales area. We can sell it anywhere in Europe.

What can we expect from (pot) orchids in future?
The Association of Dutch Orchid Producers (KNOP) is hard at work on promotion and has recently developed a website. Consumers and retailers can search the entire assortment of cut and pot orchids. The market oriented approach will be improved further by gearing it to the preferences and customs in the various countries.   Take a look on www.orchids-info.com

In wind and weather– The tiny flowers of Phalaenopsis (multiflora types) mixed 5 colours (Amore Mio) (102442) create a wild effect.	Green oasis – The large flowered Phalaenopsis (multiflora types) 5 mixed colours (Amore Mio) (102442) manifests itself as a green oasis.

Dendrobium other ( Berry Oda) (7476) – clear purple with white margins give a radiant effect.	Phalaenopsis other single spray (Elegant Debora) (28125) – deep red outer petals with white edged tip.

Phalaenopsis other pink single spray (Dragon Tree) (23036) – sparkling white marked with pink.	Dendrobium nobile Star Class White (24556) – white spray with a diameter of up to 7 cm.

Phalaenopsis mini (several sprays) (23047) – artfully arched.	Cymbidium large flowered (Pico Bello) (9252) – a cloud of palest pink, round calyxes.

Phalaenopsis other white (several sprays) (23032) – the white jewel in the crown.

Tip: Low maintenance
The greatest consumer misconception is that orchids are high maintenance. This is why customers often choose less expensive plants in the shop to limit their risk. Producers and the specialist retail trade have begun an offensive to turn the tide. Orchids are particularly easy to care for, just immerse the rootball in fresh water once a week, allow to drain and return to the pot.