growing boxes, ventilation & Nepenthes

Tom Markson (tomm@ingres.com)
Fri, 9 Apr 93 2:31:51 PDT

Hi,

I've recently constructed a growbox for my lowland Neps and I was wondering
what other experiences people have with something similar. My construction
consists of: A 4 shelf metal Metro-rack, covered with a plastic shower
curtain (with a white flower pattern. More on that in a second). The
shelves themselves are also covered with plastic and sealed (so each shelf
is a seperate area). On the shelves I put large trays filled with pebbles
and water (for humidity. The plants have good drainage since the water level
is below the peak of the rocks). This setup sits in front of a North/Eastern
facing sliding glass door. Since I have some direct sunlight in the morning,
I have hung some white "lace" curtains to block the sun. This is also why I
chose a white patterned show curtain. The whole setup cost me about $100.00.

Now, onto my questions:
1. Is anyone else using a "growbox" ? Is what I've constructed a
cheesie version of a Wardian case? Are there companies which
sell something similar to a Wardian Case? What's the price range?

2. This thing gives zero ventilation. I've read Neps love muggy
stagnant air. Is this true? If so, I know another plant
which loves stagnant air, too. Mold. Any good ideas on
preventing mold from developing?

3. What are the problems with this kind of setup?

Thanks alot.

-- 
Tom Markson					Unix Systems
email: tomm@ingres.com