By Steve Graham (Magazine Issue 16)
As we all know, Thailand is famous for its orchids. Whether you are presented with this flower on the airplane over here or whether you see them on restaurant tables once you have arrived; the image of an orchid is synonymous with Thailand. Believe it or not, the industry brings Thailand an estimated 4,000 million baht a year, which is no small change by anyone’s book.
There are about 1,200 species of orchid, which are sold as cut flowers or seedlings grown from tissue cultures to the tune of 36,000 tons a year. Because of the large demand, those in the industry are taking care to have a healthy balance between profit and conservation. I travelled to Sunshine Orchid Farm, which is north; just off the ring road, to see what was going on.
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This company sells to 12 different countries as well as to the domestic market. They are involved in various types of breeding programmes and cross fertilisation processes that are far too complicated for someone with my education to understand; however, needless to say, they look as if they are on the cutting edge when it comes to the development of orchid growing in Thailand. University students visit as part of their coursework.
They started their business in 1977 and it took ten years before the first flowers were sold. One year later they were selling to the UK. What I found particularly interesting was the sidelines that have developed as an offshoot of the initial business plan.
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My daughter was with me as my trusted translator and perfume tester and she reliably informs me that “Maeng Kaeng” was her favourite. Prices range from 300 baht for 15 cc and 1000 baht for the 50 cc bottles, so make sure you bring your wallet when you visit.
There is a lot more to orchid farming than just orchids and perfume. There’s also tea! One variety I found particularly interesting was the “Udorn Dancing Tea.” Normally Singha beer would be my chosen beverage; however, in years to come, I may well find myself imbibing myself with a cup of cha.
Apparently, this plant is also known as the telegraph plant because it responds to music, speech and telepathy by moving its leaves. Scary stuff indeed! Extracts from this plant were used in ancient times as preventative medicine and as a remedy to stop the aging process.
Recent research has shown that there is a high degree of antioxidants which have led Sunshine Orchid Farm to state that this tea will help prevent cancer in the stomach and intestines as well as strengthen your immune system. I’m not sure I am prepared to give up my current choice of beverage; however, I am always open to suggestions.
