Fragrant Orchid Plants For Sale – A Beginner’s Guide

Orchids are popular houseplants that come in a dazzling array of colors, shapes, and sizes While all orchids are pleasing to the eye, some varieties also delight your sense of smell with their sweet fragrance. If you are looking to add a scented accent to your home, here is a beginner’s guide to fragrant orchid plants for sale.

Why Choose Fragrant Orchids?

While all orchids are visually striking, only some produce noticeable fragrances. Orchids like Phalaenopsis and Cattleya cultivars are bred for their large, showy blooms – not fragrance. Fragrant orchids allow you to enjoy these houseplants with more than one sense.

The intoxicating scents from fragrant orchid varieties can permeate a room. Close your eyes, and it may transport you to a tropical paradise. Having a scented orchid nearby can be relaxing and help relieve stress.

If you want an orchid that will delight more than just your sense of sight, a fragrant variety is the way to go.

Popular Fragrant Orchid Varieties

Many kinds of orchids are prized for their sweet perfumes. Here are some of the most popular fragrant orchids to consider:

• Miltoniopsis – This orchid goes by the nickname “Pansy Orchid” due to its pansy-like blooms. It comes in vibrant colors like sunny yellow, rose pink, and white. Miltoniopsis emits a lightly sweet, citrusy scent.

• Brassavola – Also called “Lady of the Night,” this orchid releases its intoxicating fragrance in the evening. It smells like citrus, jasmine, and spices.

• Oncidium – Common in floral arrangements, Oncidium offers both visual interest and sugary sweet scents. Varieties like Sharry Baby have a chocolate fragrance.

• Cattleya – The national flower of Costa Rica boasts large, showy blooms in shades of purple, yellow, pink, and white. Cattleyas have a blend of floral and citrusy notes.

• Vanda – These orchids thrive with high humidity and warmth. Vanda orchids are adored for their long-lasting, powerfully scented blooms.

• Dendrobium – Found in hot pink, purple, yellow, and white, Dendrobium orchids have a gentle, sweet, floral scent.

This is just a small sample – there are many more delightfully fragrant orchid varieties to explore!

Factors That Impact Fragrance

An orchid’s fragrance can vary quite a bit based on different factors:

• Time of Day – Some orchids like Brassavola only release scent in the evening while others like Miltoniopsis are fragrant during daylight hours.

• Temperature – Warmer temperatures allow an orchid’s fragrance to fully develop. Cooler conditions make scents more muted.

• Humidity – Higher humidity helps disperse an orchid’s perfume. In dry air, fragrances are less pronounced.

• Sunlight – Direct sun can break down and fade floral scents. Indirect light is ideal for orchids.

• Age of Bloom – Orchid blooms are most fragrant when they are newly opened. Scents fade as flowers age.

• Nose Blindness – Being around any scent constantly can make your nose oblivious to it. To reboot your sense of smell, step away for a while.

Caring For Fragrant Orchids

While specific care can vary by variety, here are some general guidelines for growing healthy, fragrant orchids:

• Provide bright, indirect light – Direct sun burns orchid leaves and fades fragrances. East or west facing windows are ideal.

• Day temps of 70-80°F(21-27°C) – Cooler at night. Warmth allows orchids to bloom and scent fully.

• High humidity around 60% – Use a humidifier or pebble tray to prevent dry air that dulls fragrance.

• Air circulation from fans – Stagnant air traps odors. Fans refresh the scent.

• Water once a week – Soak thoroughly then allow pots to nearly dry out before watering again.

• Orchid potting mix – Allows drainage and air circulation around the roots.

• Fertilizer at 1/4 strength weekly – Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer to nurture blooms.

Where To Buy Fragrant Orchids

Now that you are ready to welcome a sweetly scented orchid into your home, where can you buy one? Here are some options:

• Local Nurseries and Garden Centers – Many carry a selection of popular fragrant orchids like Phalaenopsis and Oncidiums.

• Online Retailers – Websites allow you to conveniently shop for rare, exotic orchid varieties from home. Reputable online sellers ship healthy, vigorous plants.

• Orchid Shows and Sales – Attend local orchid events to choose from a wide diversity of species and hybrids. Talk to vendors for growing tips.

• Subscription Orchid Clubs – Joining an orchid subscription service sends you a fresh new orchid bloom every month or so.

With the endless variety of fragrant orchids available, you can find one that fits your space, care abilities, and budget. Before buying, research to ensure you pick a species suited to your growing conditions. With a little TLC, you’ll soon enjoy years of fabulous floral scents.