How long can I keep a flask?

[brianb]

I will no doubt be tempted to buy some flasks from the non Singaporian suppliers during the World Orchid Conference next week. However, shortly thereafter, I will leave Singapore for vacation in Australia until probably after Christmas. How long can I keep the flasks unopened and how should I store them i.e. Outside on my benches, inside my house in an east facing window or perhaps in a wine cooler. Would it be best not to be tempted to buy?

[orchids4me]

There are a lot of factors this will depend on.
1st would be when was the flask last replate and how far along are they to need to be de flasked when you purchase them.
If they can be left in the flask for a while depending on how much nutrients left in the media, how far along the plantlets have developed etc. It will depend also on these areas you plan to keep them in the flask... How much light, what kind of light, temps etc.
The best person to poise these questions to would be the vendor you are buying the flasks from. It may also depend on what kind of orchids they are.
Good luck !!

[brianb]

Emmaye,

Thank you so much for your response. Do you think an overseas supplier who wishes to move his stock at the show, is likely to be totally honest?

B

[orchids4me]

Originally Posted by brianb

Emmaye,

Thank you so much for your response. Do you think an overseas supplier who wishes to move his stock at the show, is likely to be totally honest?

B

Honestly, I would only hope so (that they are honest) I've never dealt with them personally. Maybe. Ron or Bolero can better answer that question.
Good luck Brian.
Emmaye

[terra_australis]

If it's just for a few months it shouldn't be an issue as long as they haven't been jumbled up too much during transport. Remember to keep them in reasonably bright light, but never in the sun.

Most of the time the plants will outgrow the flask before the nutrients run out in the media so you should be alright.

[digitalgate]

Simple , put it at my place

[Ron]

Hi sometimes I have held a flask for a few months over a very cold winter.
Couple of points to remember.
Most flasks are comercially grown under ccontrolled conditions, regular time each day under lights, constant tempature often around 26 to 28 C.

Once they are removed from these conditions growth often slows down quiet a bit BUT providing the are kept resonable warm and in resonable light they should survive quiet ok for a few months. (Warm, you are in Singapore so should be now problem with warmth.)
Mine did.
Other major consideration is condition they are now in and do they have enought agar to keep them going for the next few months

Otherwise grab the bargains at the end of the show, lucky you!

[brianb]

Thanks to you all for the advice. Feel comfortable now to try to do some bargain shopping.