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Collect Species.
Orchid species, as opposed to orchid hybrids, are plants that occur naturally, the ones you could actually find on a walk in the jungles of Borneo, the grasslands of Africa, or the woods of Minnesota. They have certain environmental requirements and specific pollinating insects (or birds or bats.) These days we have realized that it is in our best interest to protect diversity in nature and there are many restrictions on collecting, but it is still possible to obtain seed-propagated orchid species from reputable growers. There are species that are still abundant in nature and also species that are rare and endangered.
When you collect species you are getting involved in that system. You can learn what pollinates your plants, exactly where they grow, and their collection history, or just enjoy knowing that you have a plant that is really a complex product of evolution.
Collect species from a particular area of the world.
When you specialize in orchids from your favorite area of the world, it is a way to carry a part of that area with you. Also, it is simply wonderful to see an orchid that you are familiar with in its native habitat.
Collect all the varieties of certain species.
Laelia purpurata for example is extremely variable in its range of colors. Entire orchid shows in Santa Catarina, Brazil, are dedicated only to this species. There are blue, red, pink, and white forms with variations on all of these. The plant itself, no matter what color, is stunning and readily grows into a large floriferous specimen. Seed propagated plants are readily available.
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