Meristem's Terrarium
So I received 3 new additions to jump start my new homemade terrarium for miniature orchids. The current build is nothing special. It's a grow tank without any bells or whistles. Strictly designed to provide ideal growing conditions. Aesthetics might come later. Current build is as follows:
1. 10 gallon fish tank with glass top
2. 26W CFL x2 in brooder hoods on 14hr cycle
3. 2-3" LECA substrate with 2" standing water
4. 80mm in-tank fan with blue LED light running 24-7
5. Oregon Scientific Hygrometer/Thermometer (temps range in high 60s to mid 70s with daytime humidity ~75% and nighttime humidty upwards of 90-95%)
Current species list (see photos: listed in order)
1. Bulbophylum cernuum (Andy's)
2. Haraeale odorata (Andy's)
3. Pluerothallis corniculata (Andy's)
4. Phal. thisbe (local garden shop)
Plan moving forward:
1. Upgrade lights to my DIY aluminum reflector with 42W CFLs x2 (may increase to 4 bulbs with mix of 2700k)
2. Grow Riccia Moss over the LECA
3. Feed dilute 20-20-20 fert weekly
4. Daily watering with RO for phal and haraela
5. Water with RO q2-3days for pluero and bulbo
6. oh,...and buy more orchids
Questions:
1. Anyone recommend other mosses besides Riccia?
2. Anyone want to trade divisions once these things take off?
3. Any thoughts on the effect of the dim blue LED light that's built into the fan running 24-7. Was concerned it might effect photoperiod but I don't think it's bright enough. Justified that it simulated moonlight.
4. Any recommendations on improving the current set-up?
Thanks for the visit.
Be well,
Meristem
Last edited by meristem; 12-13-2012 at 09:27 PM..
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