Fertilizing Entire Terrarium

[herpguy]

Hello,
I have a terrarium containing: Macodes petola, a few Ludisia species, Dischidia species, Neoregelia species, Tillandsia, and Polypodium. Can I fertilize the whole enclosure safely with a terrestrial orchid fertilizer?
Thanks in advance.

[Tindomul]

Do you have frogs?
I have in the past fertilized (very very weakly) my terrariums. The frogs never died, but I never made it a habit. I did it maybe 2 -3 times a year. The other problem is the build up of the salts from the fertilizer. IF your tank has a drainage system than it would be easier to deal with, but if it does not, then you can have a build up over time which can harm your plants and any amphibians in there. Reptiles are probably ok with it. All in all, I feel it is safer using natural products, like frog poo.

[herpguy]

Hi,
No, I don't have any animals in the terrarium at this time (I live in Army barracks). I do also have a drainage system. My concern is whether or not I can fertilize the whole terrarium without worrying about certain plants.

[Tindomul]

What plants are you worried about?

[herpguy]

Well I really don't know if I should be worried. I have the list of species in my initial post. Do you see anything there that might be sensitive to a spraying with fertilizer?

[Tindomul]

I doubt it. I would however fertilize with half the amount that is recommended on the bottle. Later on if you feel it turned out ok, you can increase the dosage.

[herpguy]

Alright thanks for the info. I'll give that a try.