Wardian Case and an orchid

**moonwillow** · June 6th, 2009, 06:42 PM

Hi there... I'm new and would like some advice.

I just bought an antique Wardian Case, which of course has no lights or special air fans. I am going to put a layer of rock on the bottom and am then going to put some moss covered rocks and little ferns and things. I want to have one beautiful orchid in there as well, so this is where I'd like your help.

What kind of orchid can I put in a terrarium that is purely natural. Indirect natural sunlight, (terrarium not directly in front of a window) and no special fans.

Thanks so much for your help. I'll post pics of it once I understand more about this site, but wanted to get some ideas first.

Thanks super much,
moonwillow

**sadie** · June 7th, 2009, 12:58 PM

It might help us to know how big the case is and how far from the window you will place it.

**Ron-NY** · June 7th, 2009, 01:15 PM

don't forget to add some activated charcoal to your rock layer. Basically, Wardian cases were terrariums used during The Victorian Era. Would love to see a pic of what you purchased. There were many beautiful designs, some built to resemble miniature conservatories. They were designed to grow ferns. Will you be directly planing in the case? If yes and with lower light you might want to consider a terrestrial orchid like Oeceoclades maculata. The leaves on it are very attractive when not in bloom. Most orchids are epiphytes and would not be planted in your case's medium