Like so many places I end up adoring, Fantasy Orchids is entirely unremarkable from the outside. Even after walking through the front door, it still inspired little awe. They have some small plant displays, then hard goods like planters, fertilizers, media, and so forth, but once through the shop area, you reach a most magnificent greenhouse! Only see a small portion of it is visible from the exterior, so you really do not know what you’re getting into until you enter. Sooooo many orchids!
They move the majority of blooming orchids to the front, and we were immediately drawn to enormous cattleyas in a rainbow of colors, many wafting their gorgeous perfume through the air. I was specifically seeking phragmipedium and pahiopedilums, and they did not have quite as many as I would have hoped, but then again, more than I have ever seen elsewhere, and these are less in-demand varieties.
There were a couple employees about, but one young lady in particular was incredibly friendly and helpful. She allowed us to wander at our leisure, but every so often would come by with a particularly pretty specimen she happened upon, or, overhearing a conversation about a specific orchid, would suggest beauties with similar appearances or attributes. Just as we were about to leave, we discovered a gorgeous display of award winning orchids of every sort! It was breathtaking, and housed in a large section of mostly roped off “sold” plants. This would be my only complaint about Fantasy, as it was disappointing to see so many dazzling orchids that were not available.
Even so, we could have left with an armful, but limited ourselves to two. Now, a month later, the dendrobium that I chose has shot out a spike! Both of our selections are healthy and happy, and I would absolutely recommend Fantasy to any orchid enthusiasts, or even just lovers of plants in general. Prices are about in line with similar stores (not that I have ever shopped anywhere quite like this!): anywhere from $20-$50, depending on the variety. We spent a good hour here, and beyond the wonder of a world of orchids, it was lovely to enjoy the light and warmth of a cozy...
Read moreStroopwafel’s Plant Store Reviews - 07
Fantasy Orchids, as the name suggests, exclusively sells orchids. They have a wide variety of orchids, including Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, Phalaenopsis, Colmanara, Potinara, Epidendrum, and more. I didn’t see any jewel orchids. Every single plant is labeled with the genus and species/hybrid name, and a description of the bloom. If you have any questions, you can speak to the owner. He’s very friendly and knowledgeable. He’ll also be able to give you details on their trade-in program, which (at the time of writing) allows you to bring your plant back once it’s done blooming to get a discount on a plant that’s ready to flower.
I’m not very experienced with orchids, so I can’t really comment on Fantasy Orchid’s prices. What I can say is that their plants are all vibrant and healthy. I don’t remember seeing a single sickly specimen. This starkly contrasts with the poor neglected orchids that can be found in grocery stores; which you’ll very likely need to cautiously nurse back to health. At Fantasy Orchids, every leaf and pseudobulb is big and beautiful. The root systems are all healthy and well established. Some of the hanging plants had roots so long they smacked me in the head when I walked by!
Also they sell their potting mix and glazed clay...
Read moreAlthea, is very friendly, knowledgeable, pleasant to talk to and is very helpful helping my friend and I pick some orchids to take home. We never felt pressured to buy anything. We had questions and Althea was always there to help us and answer our questions. She was also kind and had patience to show us some photos of the blooms as well. We not only left with one or two or three, but several orchids and supplies with us; and have been back to Fantasy Orchids to purchase some more within 3 weeks apart from our first visit! The orchids are very healthy and they have these cute toads that just chill and rest at the greenhouse too. Also, this adorable cute pupper who greets us as well when Kent is around. Fantasy Orchid offers a variety of exotic orchids. These aren’t ordinary orchids like they have at the grocery stores. They have plenty to choose from and get new ones in often. So be sure to check back with them frequently. We have been visiting this nursery almost every week since the end of June and have bought 23 orchids from Fantasy Orchid so far. This orchid nursery is a true gem, we are obsessed!...
Read more