What does it cost to set up an orchid polyhouse and which orchid sells as cut flower?

For cut flower the common commercial orchid is Dendrobium, while Cymbidium suits cooler hill areas and Phalaenopsis is mostly a potted plant. Orchids need a protected structure with shade net and humidity control, and in warm areas a fan and pad or misting system, so the structure cost is similar to other polyhouse crops, broadly in the range of about Rs 700 to Rs 1100 per square metre for a good house, plus the planting material which for orchids is expensive per plant. The plants take time to come into full flowering, often a year or more, so you need patience and working capital. North East states and some hill states give specific orchid and floriculture support, so check the current scheme and subsidy with your state horticulture department. Importantly, line up your market, orchid cut flower demand is concentrated in big cities and events, so confirm a buyer before you scale up.