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  #1  
Old 03-27-2008, 04:07 PM
lynnds6 lynnds6 is offline
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Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1
Set up for orchids
Default Set up for orchids

I'm brand new to growing orchids and want to set up an area for my new orchids indoors. I have phal chids and a cattleya. I have an art niche in my house I'd love to turn into an orchid growing niche. There is currently a hook up (sorry I'm not up on ANY technical lighting terms) for a can light there. My fiance is an electrician so I'm sure I could have him change it if needed.

The area I have there is about 4 ft wide, 4 ft high, and 2 foot in depth. I plan on having humidity trays underneath the chids and a small fan.

What can I do to make this a grow area? Can I use some sort of plastic to help keep humidity in? I know the cattleya may not do as well if I don't meet their high light requirements. Part of my problem is we don't have a basement (or anywhere else) for that matter to put them. The windows in my house receive very little light as there are tall houses on either side and it's shaded in the back.
I'd really like to have a nice display/growing area that doesn't resemble something of mass production.

I've thought about purchasing the indoor garden light for $250 but it is pricey. It's at:
Tindara's Orchid Supplies, Orchid Supply Products, Orchid Potting Mix

OR they have a wonderlite (I copy and pasted the info):

Wonderlite® is a unique, full spectrum light bulb with peaks in the blue, red and far-red wavelengths, which promotes healthy and vigorous plant growth. Wonderlite® is the ONLY full spectrum light that can be used in standard incandescent lamp sockets - without a special fixture or ballast! This represents a technological breakthrough for gardeners who wish to grow and maintain healthy indoor plants. The Wonderlite® is highly recommended for orchids and works wonders on all flowering plants, even roses!
Wonderlite® Specifications:
160 watt bulb - R40 reflector flood lamp. Lamp life is rated at 10,000 hours. Lights up to a 15 sq. ft. area.


It's $50 for the bulb that will last about a year? Would this be a good choice to grow 4-5 orchids? Has anyone used one of these before?

I'd love any and all suggestions for lighting such a small but tall area!

Thank you for your help!

Dana
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  #2  
Old 03-27-2008, 04:19 PM
Ross Ross is offline
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Join Date: Sep 2006
Zone: 5a
Posts: 9,277
Default

First of all, welcome to the board. I am sure you'll just jump in here and have fun enjoying your hobby. There are some expert enablers here that will try to subtly get you to increase your collection (see, I would never do that )

You are absolutely set up perfectly on a display space. Wish I had your problem . First, I would moisture proof the back, sides and bottom of the alcove with substantial moisture barrier, like shower stall liner material from Home Depot. This is available in lots of decorator colors and patterns and can be installed with silicone to hold it in. Silicone the seams and you're done. As for lights, if you can manage it, go for New Wave T5 Light, New Wave Florescent Grow Light, New Wave Fluorescent Growing Light, New Wave High Output T5 Lighting, Low Profile New Wave Grow Lights The 4 foot model is 48 3/4" outside length. If this will fit, it will be your best bet for highest light output. You can grow high light genera like Cats on top (the lights output 1800 FCs at 6") and lower light genera like Phals on the bottom shelf. Should be easy to do. Check out the "growing under lights" section of this board for lots of discussions on pros and cons of various types of lights and setups.

Once again, welcome and enjoy your time here and your hobby.
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