Items to build Terrarium?

[brewmyster]

I am wanting to build a Terrarium. I have a few mini orchids moumted and dont want them drying out. Have them hanging in kitchen window for now.

I have obtained a 29 gal aquarium and a computer fan. What kind of light do I need to get and where can I get it? And what else might I need?

Thanks
Mark

[Paul Mc]

I actually just finished a thread about my construction, titled my terrarium is finally finished, where i detailed everything I went through and bought. As for light, it really depends upon what your orchids need and how much stuff is going in there that might cast shade or block some light.

[Sekhmet]

I was also hoping someone could point me towards a good how-to guide. I am going to be doing a 10 gallon orchidarium for minis.

[Paul Mc]

On the internet, there isn't per say one true complete how-to guide. I don't know about books though. I searched a multitude of websites and instructions to find out how I wanted to build mine. I used search terms such as "how to build a terrarium," "how to build a vivarium," "how to construct (same as the two above)," "building a (either t. or v.), etc... Each combination gives you somewhat different results, but exhaust the possibilities and go through the lists. Don't just stop at page one or two either, as often some of the best stuff is hidden several pages in.

You should also do a lot of internet researches on the various issues you will be facing, such as lighting, air flow, water flow, water pumps, temperature regulators (if needed), GFCI switches or GFCI extension cords (so you don't electricute yourself while playing in your terrarium), etc...

It really did take me about 2 or 3 months to get everything together, researched and built, but it was well worth the wait. A bit frustrating at times, but worth it.