Vivarium Builder from Edmonton, Canada

[Grimm]

Hey all. Just saying hi from up north! My interests lie in vivaria but I recently realized that a plant addiction has started to blossom. Im looking for anyone who may have some miniature orchids for sale/trade in my area that will do well in high light, high humidity, low ventillation environments (temps ranging from 70-80).

And just so I dont come off as someone flakey who just wants a quick sale, here is some couple pictures of my most current completed project. Im in the middle of my 2nd tank similar to this, so plants are needed



Here are the inhabitants.


And the next 2 pics are of my only 2 orchids inside the tank.

Haraella Retrocalla


Phal. Luis Rainbow "Orchis"


Thanks everyone!

[RosieC]

Welcome to Orchid Board

That vivarium looks really great. A lot of orchids need air movement but I also know that a lot of people here do use them in vivariums and/or terariums with some fans to provide the air movement needed.

I can't help with any of this myself I'm afraid but hopefully some of the guys here will be able to.

Our founder, Marty, is a fan of vivariums and I believe first came to orchids through that hobby. If you've not seen it he has another couple of forums (our sister sites).
Vivarium Forums
Dart Frog Forum on Husbandry and Habitat Information

[Grimm]

I realize that most orchids need air movement, but there are types that do well in low circulation environments. The 4 orchids that were sold to me are all growing very nicely and have little-no circulation other then at misting/feeding times. They are putting out leaves quickly and I dont notice any leaf/root rot. I was also told that these species tend to have nicer flowers when in viv conditions rather then when a lot of circulation is given to them.

I stumbled along the thread for "terrarium friendly species" and it seems quite informative at the moment. I'll be compiling a list of plants that look to be a suitable size. Im just hoping that someone local has a few of them

Edit: And yes I'm familiar with Vivariumforums. Im actually one of the more active and involved members there Some people here will probably be sick of me and my tanks by now :P

	Mistking Looking for a misting system? Look no further. Automated misting systems from MistKing are used by multitude of plant enthusiasts and are perfect for Orchids. Systems feature run dry pumps, ZipDrip valve, adjustable black nozzles, per second control! Automatically mist one growing shelf or a greenhouse full of Orchids. See MistKing testimonials

[RosieC]

Ah glad you've found the terrarium friendly species thread. I didn't know about that one but sounds like it should have some good info.

I know there are many orchids which like high humididty which always makes them candidates for a vivarium/terarium. I've always understood they still needed air movement but maybe just the bit it gets at the misting/feeding times is enough.

Do you know what sort the one in your last picture is. Is kind of looks like a Phal to me but usually they don't like water sitting in the crown when potted upright (they hang more sidways/down in the wild).

	Mistking Looking for a misting system? Look no further. Automated misting systems from MistKing are used by multitude of plant enthusiasts and are perfect for Orchids. Systems feature run dry pumps, ZipDrip valve, adjustable black nozzles, per second control! Automatically mist one growing shelf or a greenhouse full of Orchids. See MistKing testimonials

[Grimm]

I think you missed the names above each photo Yes that is a Phal. Luis Rainbow "orchis" in the bottom picture.

I'll be sure to take your suggestion and change it's orientation next time I get the chance. I try not to mist the orchids as much. Typically I try and moisten the sphagnum a few times a week, and I try not to mist the leaves very much. So far they seem to be growing awesome for the past 2 months I have had them even though the leaves do get wet on occasion.

I would add a circulation fan, but the tank is smaller then it seems. It is only 20 gallons and even a 2-2.5" computer fan looks way to big inside. And ventillation mesh is not a viable option either, because my background is made from clay. If it doesnt recieve constant humidity it will dry out and flake.

[RosieC]

Yes I did miss the names

Another tip is that if the leaves/crown have water in the day they are generally fine, but if it's left overnight it's more likely to cause problems. I think it's all a case of how long the water is left setting in the crown... if it's long enough for bacteria to get to work it causes problems. Generally in the day the water evaporates and does not cause a problem.

[boyong]

Welcome to orchid board

nice terrarium you've got there. how i wish i can grow also that kind of gardening

[CTB]

You'll soon be an orchid collector, usually you just need one to bloom for you. Welcome and enjoy!

[Grimm]

Originally Posted by CTB

You'll soon be an orchid collector, usually you just need one to bloom for you. Welcome and enjoy!

Haha Im pretty sure you are right! My haraella retrocalla seems to be shooting out a flower stem. Either that or the root in growing towards the light lol. Im excited to get my first bloom! I'll post a picture of the "stem" later.

[silken]

I am next door to you in Saskatchewan but I do know that Edmonton has a large orchid society. It might be worth checking that out as there would be lots of sources for trading and buying plants thru them. Here is their website:

Orchid Society of Alberta Home Page