Where to grow orchids
A small orchid collection can be grown entirely in this way, and people with larger collections sometimes use them for difficult species that need carefully controlled conditions, as well as for their decorative effect. Few, if any, firms still make orchid cases, but they are still occasionally available secondhand. Otherwise, it is not too difficult to have one made; a number of firms could supply the necessary controls. A typical size is about 1.5m (5ft) high by 1.2m (4ft) wide and 60cm (24 in) deep — these are the outside measurements; the growing area is slightly smaller. The floor of suchcases usually consists of a waterproof tray with aggregate granules under which there is a heating cable set on a wooden base with a movable grill to control air flow. The wooden roof has vent holes but a small fan may also be necessary as good ventilation is essential. For a cabinet of this size, three 40-watt fluorescent tubes should be sufficient; they can be controlled by a time switch set to give 12-14 hours of light a day Keep 2.5cm (1 in) of water in the tray to keep the humidity high.
Plants to grow in an orchid case
Aerangis, most species
Angraecum, smaller species
Cattleya, small hybrids
Dendrobium bigibbum
Dendrobium hybrids
Dracula species
Ludisia discolor and other jewel orchids Paphiopedilum, most species and hybrids
Phalaenopsis species and hybrids Pleurothallis species
Shade houses
Shade houses are used for growing orchids in tropical and subtropical climates where the problem is one of too much heat and light, rather than cold. They are usually simple structures made from poles with a thatched or shade-cloth roof, often with shade-cloth or polythene curtains on the sides that catch the sun. They have the great advantage of being easy and cheap to extend when the need arises.
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