tarrarium for beginers

[pugmom]

I have a few mini phals that I would like to place in a tarrarium and see how it goes.

I may pick up some more mini's at our local orchid show which is in a couple of weeks.

few questions???

Would shade growing orchids need artificial light in this type of environment?
If so what type of bulb would you use for phals and other low light plants?
If not.... I know the tank's can amplify the sunlight so how far away from a window would be enough light if I was to opt to not use a grow light?
(right now all the phals are in a North facing windowsill and seem to be doing fine)

What would I use for humidity purposes? or would a pebble tray or small water fountain be enough to keep humidity high in a tank with a lid?

Would I need fans for air movement in a tank this size?

Should I try and mount the mini phals or just leave them in the pots?

Any other tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!!

[Phalcycle]

What is "this size"?
In all tense and purposes, a fan would definately help. Phals like it humid with a good air flow. Normally just a layer of pebbles on the bottom, and then water around it (creating a humidity tray effect) w/o a lid is fine, but with a lid you definatly need a fan.
Mounting would be better but it's not necessary.

[katrina]

I have a 45gal set up for some small, lower light plants...not really a true terrarium.

I have river rock/decorative stone in the bottom filled a bit w/water. I have a small clip on fan for air circulation and I use a full spectrum bulb for terrariums in the hood. It's ok for low light plants but not enough for anything med or high light.

Here's a pic...

[Julez]

I really like your set up Katrina


pugmom- There is a thread for terriariums in the cultivation area that may help also. There are several of us who are about to or have just started building the garden.
Terrarium Setup

[pugmom]

cool thanks!

So its probably better with no lid?
I am thinking small like 10 or 15 gallons

[katrina]

The lid would help to hold more humidity but I was afraid of stagnant conditions that might lead to bacterial or fungal issues... so I've left mine off.

[LouisW]

Lots of people I know who grow like this, add a little fountain, which not only keeps the humidity up but creates sufficient ariflow. Two birds with one stone, plus it looks nice.

In that case you could keep the lid on.

[pugmom]

Originally Posted by LouisW

Lots of people I know who grow like this, add a little fountain, which not only keeps the humidity up but creates sufficient ariflow. Two birds with one stone, plus it looks nice.

In that case you could keep the lid on.

Never thought about a fountain creating air flow!
Great idea!!!

TY everyone

I will take pics once I have started it.

[pugmom]

Ok so I picked up a 10 gallon with a hood and lid, some sphag moss, coconut husks, really interesting looking log.....

I wasn't sure about the light?
this seemed the most appropriate (25 watt sun glow broad spectrum)
PT2102 Sun Glo Neodymium Lamp 25 Watt [PT2102] - $6.69 : Rainforest Station, The Premier Captive-Bred Pet Retailer

They had these at the petstore.... not sure if this is appropriate for phals and if so do I use only 1 or one 2 (one in both sides of the lid)

[pugmom]

NM I did my own research and went back to the store and picked up a 26 watt CF full spectrum.

1600 lumen should be enough for a 10 gallon tank with phals so I think I am on my way!