Terrarium Orchids

[msalcido]

Hello all,
I'm new to the group but not to growing Orchids. I just purchased a 14 inch tall terrarium and I would love to be able to place an orchid in it. I have 3 questions -

1. I'm thinking bromelaides, succulents, and moss. Maybe some ferns. Is it possible to plant the orchid in the soil along with the other plants or does it have to remain in a container?

2. Since the tank is only 14 inches high, are there dwarf type species of Orchids that I can use? If so, suggestions would be helpful.

3. This goes back to question #1, what plants are recommended for growing with the Orchid?

Thanks in advance for any and all help.

Mike

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

The only orchids I can think of that would work for you in this specific case, are a group of terrestrial orchids that are known to the general public collectively as "Jewel Orchids".

Try looking at the genus Ludisia, Cyclopogon, Dossinia, Macodes, Pelexia, or Anoetochilus.

The tank also must have excellent drainage in order for it to work.

You will have a very difficult time with bromeliads in the genus Tillandsia as they absolutely love air movement.

Ferns you will most likely succeed with, hands down.

[msalcido]

Thanks. So I take it the Jewel Orchids can be planted in soil and not have to be watered like the others?

I'll look up the genus you provided.

Thanks again!

[littlefrog]

In a somewhat self-serving way (the plants come from me, and I don't want to type a list), I would suggest visiting joshsfrogs.com to see what plants we list there for terrariums. That will get you started...

What you can't plant in soil, you could grow mounted. I like masdevallia and restrepia for terrariums. If you used long fiber sphagnum moss as a substrate instead of soil, you could grow many different kinds of orchids as long as you don't let the medium stay soggy wet.