Mister, fogger, or other solution to raise humidity in 18 x 18 x 24" Terrarium? - Orchid Board

SeraphSept · #1 04-25-2024, 10:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by subtle_variegation

I recently purchased a used 18 x 18 x 24" Exo Terra terrarium for my small collection of (mostly) miniature orchids that I grow indoors. It holds some moisture after I water my plants but the increase in humidity doesn't last long (I'm currently using the mesh lid it came with and a small USB fan for ventilation). I'm looking for some cost-effective recommendations for something that allows me to keep the RH consistently higher.

From what I've read fogging systems are better than misters because the droplets are much smaller and therefore less likely to contribute to bacteria, mold, fungi, etc. However, I also know that the MistKing systems are pretty popular and have very fine mist.

I found someone selling one of their starter systems (I think it's the V4.0, not the newest one) for only $100 on Facebook Marketplace. That's probably the maximum I want to spend right now, if I could be closer to $50 that would be better. I'm a little suspicious of the cheap models on Amazon because of all the mixed customer reviews. I know I could buy one of those small desk humidifiers but I'd prefer something with more controls/automation (e.g. a timer).

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

I think the best fix is to buy glass inserts (I would use glass instead of plexiglass, as plexiglass in my experience warps under humidity and heat) for your lid. I know of some who have glass strips cut so they can adjust the ventilation for simulating seasons and others who use pre-cut inserts that fit snugly over the screens (I would search 'glass top inserts for vivaria' or something similar). You can definitely add a misting system, and those two things together will do a lot to stabilise ambient humidity, but step one is slowing evaporation through lid.

I have used plastic wrap in a pinch while waiting for inserts to arrive.