Mounting Orchids in Dart Vivarium

[drtfr33k16]

First off I want to apologize for this question may have been asked before but I want to make sure all of my questions are answered. I have a 20 gallon vert(vertical) with a space for plants 1 foot wide, 9 inches deep, and 15 inches high. I am looking for an epithytic(sp.) orchid to mount on the wood or background and i cannot have a terrestrial because there is no substrate just water underneath. I can position it to get verrying amounts of water due to the two small driplines in the background and it can be positioned to receive very high to low light. I would really apreciate it if you could give me a list of beginner orchids that fit this criteria and there special requirements. Thank you very much for any input.

PS; It will be a very humid environment and I can but would rather not intsall fans there is a small mesh strip 2 inches hich at the top of the paludarium.

Justin

[Tindomul]

I would try a miniature catt species, they seem to really thrive in humid, bright conditions where they can dry out everyday a few hours after misting. They are usually only about 5 inches tall. Nice flowers too.
Haraella odorata for your dripline, but make sure it dries out everynow and then. All orchids like to dry out, especially at night.

[terrestrial_man]

You did not say just how hot your tank gets. I would venture the plant Ludisia discolor. This is considered a terrestrial but it is really a weed orchid. It can grow on a coconut mat if that is your background or you can mount it using sphagnum moss wrapped around the roots. You don't say where you are but maybe someone will share a piece for you to try??? I would gladly do so but cannot mail to you until spring. if you are in the USA. There are alot of cool growing orchids that would fit your conditions but prob. not the heat your tank gets up to! Ludisia loves the humidity and is not partial about temperature range nor the presence of fans. Otherwise I would recommend a small species of Philodendron.

[drtfr33k16]

Thank you im located in Northwest pennsylvania the temperature range will be in the mid to high seventies. The background is not a cocomat but is a great stuff foam covered in coco husks.

[terrestrial_man]

Hey Justin,
sounds good. earmarked my calendar on 4/10 will be doing repotting of my Ludisia . If you haven't snagged any by then will be more than happy to send some your way. Cheers.

[drtfr33k16]

Wow thanks very much I will if I do not have any.