Orchids are susceptible to stress factors such as temperature fluctuation, low humidity and temperature, contact with ethylene, and mechanical damage, which can reduce orchids marketability because of poor appearance and shortened vase life. The shorter the time from harvesting to packing and shipment, the longer vase life will be. Export Criteria Dendrobium orchids produced and packed for export are carefully graded, by hybrid and by spray length and quality. Most importers require that at least half of the flowers be open, with good sprays having 10 or more flowers.
Market needs and importer requirements vary considerably among and within importing countries.
Spray size, maturity, number per carton box, and carton type are factors producers should take into account when initiating export contracts. Hybrids New hybrids are introduced continually, but certain criteria are used to evaluate all varieties. Good Dendrobium hybrids should produce 10 or more flowers per spray with at least 5 sprays per plant per year. Vase life should also be a consideration with hybrid selection. Individual flowers are large and showy.