Orchid Room - Orchid Board

kivens · #1 10-14-2008, 02:28 AM

We are building a second building on the property and have set aside a room 16' x 12' for growing orchids.
The room is just getting the electrical and water lines put in and before I close up the walls...

I have roughed in a 250 gallon storage tank for a RO water system, roughed in power for 4 vivariums along one wall, and going to paint 3 coats of high gloss to seal the walls.

Are there ideas, wish list items, or other things I should install now before the drywall goes up?

smweaver · #2 10-14-2008, 05:42 AM

I have approximately the same size sunroom that's on the back of my house with basically the same set-up as you've described. The sink that we put in there with the RO unit beneath it was probably one of the brightest ideas I had. It makes watering the plants so much easier than carrying them to the kitchen sink and having to deal with spills/water droplets. We also installed a tile floor in the sunroom and a large overhead fan, both of which also have minimized the amount of actual "work" that has to be done now that everything is up and running. Sounds like you've done your planning well. How many windows do you have, and what orientation are the windows--or are the four vivariums going to be your primary growing areas? Best of luck to you, and I would definitely like to see some pictures if you get a chance to take them.

Steve

Bird Song Farm · #3 10-14-2008, 07:30 AM

Just a couple of thoughts, I don't know if you can use them or not, so disregard if they aren't applicable.

If you are going to any type of lighting system....on racks or growing benches........put in some outlets up on the wall at about the height you'll need to get the lights plugged in. Saves a lot on dangerous and unsightly extention cords. You say your room is in an "out building".........a telephone jack would be a good idea. Wouldn't have to use it now but it's a good time to put the wiring in.

When it comes time to paint, use exterior paint. Holds up to moisture/humidity much better and be sure to put up a moisture barrier before the drywall.

I'm sure I've missed something, I'm in the process of finishing up my orchid room and these are a few things I considered.

Hope it helps,
Al

Ray · #4 10-14-2008, 07:49 AM

I think you're also wasting space with a 250-gallon RO tank. For the number of plants you'll be able to put in the room, a tank of half that volume is probably sufficient, and you'll have room for more plants!.

Following up on Steve's post, can you put a floor drain for overflow/spillage?

kivens · #5 10-14-2008, 10:29 AM

I put the power plugs 5' up along the one wall and I agree, I should add a couple of plugs in the ceiling where the racks will go.
The plan is to put one double rack down the middle, the outside wall gets a single row of racks and the inside wall gets the vivariums.

Windows? 2 on the back wall (north facing) that are 3'x3' and one on the side wall (east facing) 3'h x 6' long. The long window opens for ventilation and there is a exhaust fan on the opposite wall. (There is an intake vent from the other room to use in the winter)

I know the water tank is big, and it was free, food grade and it was free. It is 4 feet high so I can still use the space above the tank. Yes the sink and floor drain are right there as well. The wet corner of the room.