FlytrapCare Carnivorous Plant Forums

I'm planning to order a complex paph and a monniera millenium magic witchcraft (a.k.a the black orchid), but it's from another province in the philippines (which is where I live). But the shipping they're using is in constant delays. I really love to see a paph flower, because I've never had one in bloom in my life, but would it be safe to buy one in bloom (due to the delivery delays that may occur), or should I buy one in bud. I heard they only bloom once a year, so I really want to see it.

When I want to get maximum time with a flower, I request a plant in "low bud" meaning a very short stem (maybe under 2") below the bud. That way, you know the plant is flowering but the stem is short enough that it's unlikely to be damaged during transit. You'll be able to enjoy the coming flower for as long as it lives. I've never been happy with getting a plant that already has a flower. The flower typically arrives a bit beaten up and you don't know how old the flower is - it might be ready to die, even with the best of care.

So order one with a low bud? Even with shipping delay the bud won't abort?

I concur with Everwind .... low bud.

Darlingtoniafan222 wrote: ↑Tue Feb 16, 2021 1:18 am So order one with a low bud? Even with shipping delay the bud won't abort?

Is there a risk of aborting? Yes. There always is when a plant is in bud or spiking. However, plants in full flower often have buds broken off or damaged and the stress of shipping can reduce the flowers lifespan.

So 2 inches should work to keep it somewhat safe. Would you suggest extra cotton or soft paper to protect it?