the ultimate (?) plant thread

[tinkgirl77]

Ok guys, questions for the experts. I have become very interested in adding some kind of moss to my RETF vivarium that is in the works. I have been looking into different types and places to get them. First off, is moss and or lichens a good or bad idea? Second off, where is a good place to buy it from that is frog safe? Or is there a protocol for "cleaning" moss or lichens? Second off, I'm vacationing right now in North Carolina in the mountains and as the snow is melting I found TONS of moss and lichens! Is there a way to collect them from the wild and clean them well enough that they will froggie safe? And would they even grow? Any info or suggestions would be great!!

[deranged chipmunk]

I would collect some, but grow it in a grow tank for a minimum of a month. That way, you can acclimate it and let all it's creepy crawlies get out. Or at least show their faces. Of course, you should give it all a nice cleansing under strong running water. If the lichens are on wood, you may want to peel the bark from where it's growing, unless it's a living tree of course. That would just hurt the tree. Reindeer moss is also a cool addition in case you happen upon some.

[tinkgirl77]

Ok Bill, if I collect some, how and what should i grow them on in a tank? And on the lichens, what can I transplant them to if I do find a piece of bark? And do you know any sites that could help me identify the types? Like for example what does reindeer moss look like?

[deranged chipmunk]

You'll need to transport it home in something, obviously, then you grow it in a covered tank, or a piece of tupperware on the window sill. Something that holds humidity. Teresasplants.com may be able to help you id.