I am setting up a first 24 x 18 x 18 tall glass Exo-Terra to serve as a propagation and general growing / display case for my miniature orchids (Neofinetia falcata and Sedirea to begin with). It will have hydroton balls in the bottom with a pump to circulate water - maybe a mister at some point. And basic egg crate plastic structure for the pots to sit on and some cork / wood mounted epiphytes, etc. A fan on the inside to circulate air and create widn for the epiphytes.
In any case I wanted to start with two Exo-terra Compact Tops (each can hold 2 compact flourescents, so four bulbs total). Normally they are rated for 26w bulbs but I was thining of uping them to common Phillips/Sylvania 42w / 40w bulbs, two eack of 6500k and 2700k with some additional reflective material. I can put a fan in the hoods if they need cooling.
I had planned on putting the two 2700k in one hood and the 6500k in another hood and then having the 2700 come on first and go off last to create a bit of a sunrise/sunset.
In any case, I do have a light meter, but I am wondering what footcandles I should be shooting for, what might be too little and too much (I know it varies in the tank from top to bottom), and what might be ideal for the Neos.
I am wondering what kinds of CFL compact fluorescents other members are using with their Exo_terra Compact or similar hoods and a terrarium this size and any recommendations or advice (other than switch to T5s...that will come in time but a 4 bulb 2 foot fixture is more than $100 from the local "magic crops" hydroponics store).
Thank you all for your help, this board has been invaluable to me!
Exo-Terrra Compact Fluorescent requirements?
Threaded Mode
