My new Orchidarium (Updated Pics)

[Tindomul]

I don't have the gual to ask for a free replacement Afterall, it was doing fine till I messed with it.

[Barbara]

Wow. Jungle alright.

[mindy1]

Wow that VIV is really cool!! I need to setup one of those!! Some advice would be great. I have a 55 gallon tank that has been collecting books and dust for too long!! Some advice on how to turn an old aquarium into an orchidarium or a vivarium would be great. I would really appreciate it!!!!

Thanks,

Mindy

[Tindomul]

Thats really easy. I would follow the steps in my contruction journal here:
About to build my First Vertical tanks! Update on page 2 - Vivarium Forums
You don't have to make yours a vertical tank because a 55 is so wide it would be able to handle many more plants horizontally. Plus don't be afraid to make a big foam base (you'll understand what I mean once you read my construction journal, I think you will). What I mean is, you don't just have to restrict yourself to foam backgrounds, you could in theory use foam to build a base, and put more epiphytes there and make it look like they were terrestrials. Only problem there would be accumulation of water.

[mindy1]

The boyfrined was not to happy when I mentioned turning the aquarium into an orchidaruim, so I think I will need to get a new one. A couple of questions though! What about fungus and fertilizing? DO you fertilize? Have you ever had a fungus problem? Do you treat your viv with Physan 20??

[Tindomul]

I look forward to Mushrooms popping up. All other fungus, well you keep you eyes open. Green, white, and slime molds always show up, usually not a bad thing because they neither affect plants nor animals. You can always add Colembolla(springtails), they are decomposers who will eat fungus. To prevent rot, you just need to maintain adequate ventilation. THis also keeps molds down to a min. Right now I have to spots with mold. I am convinced neither will do any harm other than decompose my drift wood, slowly.
As for fertilizer, if you don't plan on having animals, go ahead, I don't think it will hurt. Just keep in mind that the fert wont have anywhere to go except to the bottom of the tank when you spray. Not like its gonna end up down a drain, unless you put one in. With animals, my fertilizer is dead food(flakes for fish in water features), insects for amphibians, and reptiles; as well as feces. Between the two, Im sure everything will stay happy.
I'm gonna post some updates on my orchidarium tonight. Stay tuned.

[Ross]

I, actually can't wait for your updates, Tin. Please start new post. This one is getting too long!

[Tindomul]

Here is an update on my Orchidarium. Hope you like it!

[Toddybear]

It's amazing how fast the orchids have filled in...it really does look like a little piece of the tropical cloud forest!

[Lagoon]

I really like your orchid choices. Looks great!!