Some epiphytes come from evenly
moist environments such as moss covered branches in cloud forests, or
they may grow in locations such humus filled pockets or among the roots
of larger epiphytes such as staghorn ferns which are able to collect debris
using specialized leaves. Unless you are able to mist the tank several
times a day, it may be easier to grow these moisture lovers directly on
the floor substrate of the vivarium, much like terrestrial plants.
However, one way to maintain the "hanging garden" look
is to plant these in hollow cork bark tubes that have been filled with
a light but moisture retentive medium such as an orchid planting mix.
The tubes can then be arranged like fallen branches, or elevated with
brackets attached to the wall of the vivarium.
All that is required is to block the ends of the
tube with moss or coconut fiber or even plastic window screen, then fill
the tube with the planting mix and slip in the root balls of the plants.
Think of it as planting a window box. Additional epiphytes that can withstand
or require more dryness can be attached to the outside of the tube, directly
on the bark, thus completing the illusion of an epiphyte laden branch
from the rainforest.
Cork
tube positioned in tank
Cork
tube filled and planted
