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Thread: Ways to create warmer microclimate? Heating pad?

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  1. #1
    Real Name
    Julie
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    Default Ways to create warmer microclimate? Heating pad?

    Hi,
    Alplily in NH here... Wondering if anyone has had luck using a heating pad (like those used for plant propagation) to safely keep a few orchids warmer? Under a pebble or moss tray, it may also help to increase humidity in the immediate area? I hate to turn up the heat in my entire apartment for just a few plants while I'm out for the day at work ($$$!). Other ideas? Thanks!

  2. #2
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    Tim
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    Hi Alplily, I use a heating pad for my seedling orchids. I do find that the way it works is I wet the fabric mat on the pad and when pad heats up the water evaporates creating a warm humid environment. This is 'trapped' by a humidity dome like those for seedling propagation so that the moisture and heat don't dissipate as quickly.

    As usual make sure you buy one from a reputable source, use carefully and as per instructions. I always worry about these things and heaters etc etc... don't want to mess around with electrical stuff and cause fires etc etc...

    here's a couple of pics of the set up with my Paph randsii seedlings.
    Attached Images Attached Images   

  3. #3
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    Joe
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    We have an electric two speed heated/cool air fan with a built-in thermostat. It can be set to go on when it gets chilly and turns off when the ambient temperature is correct.

  4. #4
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    Nico Daneel
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    I don't have experience myself, but I read that keeping the roots warm is all that is realy needed. Orchids will survive at several degrees lower than usual as long as the root temps stays ok.

  5. #5
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    Julie
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    Default Thanks for advice!

    Thanks, everyone, for the terrific advice. Wish me well up here in the cold, dark northlands... Alplily

  6. #6
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    Bruce Brown
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    Good luck, Alplily!

    Cheers,
    BD

  7. #7
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    Default

    I have tried those medical heating pad with my phals, using the lowest setting, my plants love it.

    Qing

  8. #8
    Join Date
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    Saratoga Co. New York
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    Default

    I agree with Tim an enclosed environment is easier and less expensive to heat than a room. using a cast off fish tank is a way depending on the size of your collection.


    Tim, you don't worry about lack of air circulation in that set up?

  9. #9
    Real Name
    Tim
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    I have a room fan that I also have running... also, there is an open space between the bottom of the humidity tray and the heat pad, so that allows a certain amount of airflow through the set up...

    i use to sit them all enclosed on top of the heat pad and then the humidity on top... bad idea! the high humidity and lack of air movement made everything rot! so learnt my lesson and now i make sure there is air movement happening.

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