The perfect mix of orchids...

[Diane]

What is your idea of the perfect mix of species vs hybrids???

[wogga]

I voted for 100% species. The main reason im interested in orchids is because they are the purest demonstration of darwinian evolution. They have specialized to their environment, and vice versa, and are so diverse in their natural habits and traits, that i can see no reason to be into orchids if it were not for the species plants. Species Orchids = Evolution. Hybrid Orchids = Man's f'ing with nature.

I dont mean to knock hybridization - there are a LOT of really pretty hybrids out there, and i even own a few. However, the simple fact is, i could have ended up obsessed with a slew of other things, but Orchids took my passion because of their natural adaptation and specialization abilities. Therefore, i must focus on species plants.

[orchid-man]

Hi all
Ive voted that I just go with the flow of things and dont try for a percentage.The reason is that I have a breeding program underway and am working the genes that a plant has.

[ABro]

I had to vote for 51-75% species. I am also currently under way with a breeding program, and have found that there are some select hybrids that I am trying to back cross, and recross to eventually get a more superior hybrid.

[bench72]

I voted "Don't Care" mainly because even though I love species orchids... I know I am still won over by many hybrids and will still come home from the sales tables with them... so why fight it, let it go....

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I voted 20-34 % species. I cannot help falling in love with some hybrids and then some species that just are too unique to pass up. I have a passion for plants of most kinds and love finding out how to grow them. Orchids seem to be a logical place since there are so many different kinds. Every day is a new adventure! Plus I get to hang out with people like all of you who share in this wonderful hobby!

Cheers!
BD

[Gin]

I voted 100% species if I had it to do over .. Gin

[uncasteeb]

I voted "Don't care " as basically i don't.
I love my species plants but i will not disregard a plant just because it is a hybrid.
With Phals i am starting to get a little fickle , i do like the species & primaries more than a lot of the hybrids.
Why ?
Scent basically , a lot of the species are so fragrant & also the flowers are so delicate looking.Mind you i still love some of my hybrids & have a soft spot for large whites.

[Tmai]

I voted "don't care". I'm so new to growing orchids I don't know any better yet. I want them all!!

Every day is a new adventure! Plus I get to hang out with people like all of you who share in this wonderful hobby! -BD

I second that!
Tmai

[pavel]

Difficult choice in a way. I went with "35 - 50% species, rest mix of hybrids " as that is closer to where I'm at presently. I do find that species are continuing to intrigue me more & more. However there are hybrids -- mainly minicatts that I wouldn't be without. One of the attractions w/ hybrids for me is the trend to breed smaller plants that bloom more than once per year. With limited space, smaller plants means I can have a greater variety of shapes & colors.