New to orchids, looking for advice please

[craiginnh]

Hi,

I recently went to a flower show and decided to start growing orchids. I had some when I was younger, with some success. This time(because I now live in New Hampshire), I would like to either make or buy an orchidarium. I looked at orchidarium.com and klima-gro. Both look nice, but are very costly. I have the ability to purchase 1, but after reading the board all night, it looks as though I can make 1 for a lot less and possibly better. The big problem...I am about as handy as a clam.

So, can I buy a 60-80 gallon aquarium with a hood and proper lighting, then add the other accessories? If so, my 2 main questions are this...glass or other material for the aquarium? And what kind of lighting should I use if I want to grow medium to high light orchids?

Thanks to anyone who can help out! If I can get the basic tank and lighting, I should be able to work out the humidy, air flow, etc.

I thought about breaking down and getting the orchidarium from their website, but 800-1500 seems steep.

Craig

[Tindomul]

For airflow you can computer fans. Some aquarium stores sell these ready to just plug into the wall for those of us who are not electricians. These will get the air moving in your tank. Glass if great, doesn't scratch as easily and allows for better viewing. For lights I would go with some that are called T-5's. Very bright and very little heat when compared to the same wattage in other bulbs. YOu can get those at Home Depot or a Hydroponics store. If you want heat for the plants, you can go with lights that release more heat. Shop around, you'll find what you need. Marty our administrator also doubles as a misting system saleman. Mistking systems, and they are great! I reccommend them to everyone! Hope this helps!