I know nothing about orchids but I want to grow can you help me?

[dafunk5446]

Hello, I just realized how amazing orchids are and I really want to start growing them. I was thinking of doing a terrarium. I have a extra 29 gallon aquarium laying around would this be ok?. I have also kept nearly every commen species of gecko and other lizards so I know how to maintain humidity and temperature in enclosed enviroments. I would like to keep smaller hardy orchids so I can have a larger variety in the terrarium. Is this sounding like an ok idea? Can you suggest a few orchids that will survive in lower light conditions? Also for this size aquarium how much light would be needed? I have an extra 2x24 watt compact flourescent laying around as well as two everyday fish tank lights, if I retrofitted them into a hood would this be enough or to much? In terms of the set up of the tank what should I use for substrate? I would like to be able to plant the orchids so I do not want to have pots laying around in there. I love natural looking enviroments and cannot stand anything but. Sorry for all the questions I have been searching the internet for these questions but I have not been able to find to many answers for my questions

[orchidexpress]

All orchids will grow on rocks or natural wood that you will have in the terrarium. Try some low light lady slippers. You will have quite fun with these and will look great with the geckos. Good luck!

[Charles]

There are literally hundreds of orchids that will be well suited for your needs. On this board, you will find many people who do exactly what you are looking to do.
First, decide what kinds of orchids you can group for light, temp and humidity. Then start slow and "create" your jungle in miniature.
Beware, you are about to begin an adventure. Some people need support groups in order to stop buying and growing orchids. Orchidiholics anonymous.

Have fun.

[cb977]

Hi and welcome to Orchidboard

Do you have any orchids yet or are you just starting out on this all-consuming, mind-boggling slippery slope we call a hobby...but it's actually an addiction

Where are you located?

We have a forum dedicated to Terrrium growing and lots of our members are very knowledgeable on the subject...check it out, ask question, have fun

Hope to see you around the board...keep us updated on your progress

[dafunk5446]

No I do not have any orchids yet, and I have a very addictive personality and tend to obsess over my hobbies (you should see my saltwater reef tank) so I have already told my girlfriend we wont talk for a couple months until this is setup and progressing nicely. I am in colorado....great place to grow tropical plants...Right?....yeah. Sorry I got a little happy I could post my questions and couldnt scroll down six lines and see the terrarium forum. And have no worries I will be asking questions constantly, I like to know as much about my hobbies before I get into them, and I cant stand it when people buy things on a whim and wonder why they cant care for them!