It might be worth a call to Hydoponic Garden Center in Queens. It's a little out of the reach by public transportation, but if you have access to a car, it's right on the service road of the Long Island Expressway (westbound). Give a call to see if they have what you're looking for; I've always found them to be really helpful.

Here is a link that might be useful: Hydroponic Garden Center

Thanks, they do not carry it. Silva Orchids occasionally places a group order, but I missed that one for now, will have to wait at least a couple months, they say, unless I want smaller quantities at double the price. A local orchid society was ordering 45 bags - missed that by 2 days (grrr!) Anyway, this is not hugely urgent, but if anybody knows a source, I'd appreciate it here even when this thread ages.

If you have a car, you could try a couple of nurseries in Westchester County, right outside the City. I would call them. Both are right on the Saw Mill Pkwy about 30min from NYC. You could also take Metro North (but you'd have to carry big bags).

Green Valley Nursery in Hawthorne.
Rosedale Nursery, Hawthorne
Thought of a 3rd - Sprain Valley Nursery in Eastchester (not positive, just Google it).

Call them and see if they carry it. Maybe they could order it for you. Rosedale has a lot of orchids but their prices are higher.

I order my supplies from my OS. When I lived in NY it was Greater Westchester Orchid Society. They are in Harrison, right off 95 and close to the City. You could try them.

Jane

Thanks for the leads, Jane, I'll work the list. No car - I am a proud owner and a frequent user of a NYC metrocard. :-) My friends or brother can help me pick up by car though if I find the bark.

A few of my orchids are in this mix I concocted myself (equal parts pine bark >3/8ths, coarse('ish) perlite and sphagnum moss), but I have no good reason to have a lot of faith in it. Short term it's fine, but Orchiata long term all the way (till they come up with something better).

For those also interested in Orchiata in NYC area: the best source I found so far is http://www.silvaorchids.com/ in NJ. They periodically (every few months) pool orders and get a pallet. Price is $33-$35+tax depending on the grade ($33 for "Power", or #5). They are at the Green Market on Union Square every Wednesday and every other Saturday, and free bark pickup can be from there if not from their main location.

EDIT: forgot to say, Staten Island Orchid Society people get a pallet annually as well. I missed getting on their order this time, but thought I should mention it for those reading later.

This post was edited by greentoe357 on Thu, May 15, 14 at 14:01

Thats great!

Jane