Bought this start as an Epi. Noct. need correct id

[Dollythehun]

Thanks for the reply! I have a sunroom with south and east facing windows. Now that I have ventured into the unknown, I am thinking of re-shelving it so that I can hang a few things closer to the windows. I do not know T 5 lights but, since this is actually a lived in part of the house, I would prefer something reasonably attractive. Are there lights that could be affixed to the bottom of a shelf? That would boost the natural light and still not freak out the neighbors

I will say, I joined Monday and I already have loads of new ideas! Thank you all for that!

[catherinecarney]

The T5 fluorescents I use are strips that can be mounted under shelves (which is how mine are set up) or hung from the ceiling. When I built my shelves I put a decorative molding on the front of the shelf that hangs down enough so the light is actually concealed behind it (and directs scattered light back down at the plants).

Ray (of FirstRays) on here is a great resource for lighting and fertilizer questions (and an all around good guy). There's also a section of the forum dedicated to lighting questions, so that might give you ideas as well.

Glad you are finding the forum helpful--I have found the people on here to be knowlegeable, kind, and patient. I would not be having the success I'm having with my plants without their help.

Catherine

[Dollythehun]

Yes. I looked at his lights and they would work, I think. They would also allow me to use more shelves. I'll look through the rest of the lighting posts. But, as I am sure you know, once you start poking around, it is in itself addicting. I wish I would have joined this months ago! Thank you for your kindness Catherine, it is such a rare commodity these days.

[catherinecarney]

More shelves= more orchids (see, just want to help you expand your hobby) and I'm glad to help!

You're right that poking around on the site and learning about how to grow these plants is addictive--though not as addictive as the plants themselves (grin)....

I lurk on other sites (orchids and others) and have found this one to be the most welcoming and patient. I hope that you continue to feel welcome here!

Catherine

[Roberta]

I have one that is mounted on cork, pretty much outgrew the mount. I put it, mount and all, in a wood basket that I hang sideways (so plant keeps its "mounted" orientation, but now there are more surfaces for the roots to grab.) I do grow in on the intermediate side. Most of the year it would be fine outside, but in winter, I think it needs a bit of protection when temps approach frost (which they sometimes do)