Thailand’s Amazing Orchids

Thailand is the worlds largest orchid exporter that boasts over one thousand different species both wild and  cultivated hybrids. Last year (2007) orchid exports topped 61.2 million U.S. dollars and even in a bad economy they should surpass that this year.

The majority of orchid exports are to Japan followed by the United States and then Europe. Although there has been emerging competition from the likes of Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam they still only represent a small percentage of the orchids that Thailand exports. Even so Thailand has stepped up efforts in new markets such as China and the United Arab Emerites with a 70% to 100% increase in exports to China in the last year alone.

In Thailand orchids are grown mainly in Bangkok and surrounding provinces such as Chon Buri ( where Nong Nooch Tropical Gardens is located), Saphan Buri, Samut Sakhon, Ratchaburi, Pathum Thani, and  Ayutthaya. Mainly because the climate in these areas is perfect for orchid cultivation. All together Thailand Orchid producers and plantations grow their beautiful crop on roughly 6000 acres of land.

It was about fifty years ago that the Thai’s became serious about growing and cultivating orchids when  Prince Krompranakornsawanvorapinit got into orchid growing as a hobby and commercial interest. In 1957 the Orchid Society of Thailand was formed by Royal Patronage. Since then orchids have become their largest flower export shipping 54% of their crop overseas yearly with the remainder being sold locally.

Thailand’s orchids usually flower between July and October otherwise known as Thailand’s rainy season. The colorful rich tapestry of orchids can be seen throughout the country and are truly a sight to see.