chrismende
Well-Known Member
This is such a sad subject: our worldwide interest in these orchids has, indeed, made it very profitable for locals to collect and sell. Those locals need to eat, as others say, and will continue to collect as long as there are buyers. Also, the constant pressure of the need by our complex civilization for land continues and will continue to disrupt habitats. Preserves, public education, botanical gardens, individual growers whose commitment is to perpetuating species must all continue. No one answer exists. CITES is an international effort that has many, many flaws but was well intended.
And, in answer to the original question, of course locals often know how to grow these plants well!
And, in answer to the original question, of course locals often know how to grow these plants well!
