A fashionable terrarium
(figure A) can be created for the home in a few simple steps.
Materials:
very large, clear glass bowls, vases or clear glass boxes (something with some style and design elements that make it intrinsically interesting, such as a footed vase from an import store or possibly a very large fishbowl)
charcoal
perlite
potting soil
plants of choice
moss
gravel, decorative rocks and/or river rocks
sand
piece of clear glass cut to fit over the top of the chosen bowl or vase
Steps:
- Clean bowl or vase well and place a layer of charcoal in bottom for drainage and to neutralize bacteria.
- Add perlite to help drainage and provide color contrast, then add potting soil.
- Add plants, starting with the tallest, in the bowl or vase that is used as a terrarium (figure B). Press soil down firmly, then add moss around the plants.
- Add rocks around the perimeter for added visual interest.
- Mist to water, then cover with a clear plate.
Steps if using succulents such as a cactus as the plant of choice:
- Add sand to soil.
- Begin with perlite on the bottom, then add charcoal.
- Add cactus or other succulents, and top with soil.
- Dress with tiny stones for an interesting look and to hold the top soil layer down.
- Water and feed as needed, then put on the glass cover.
Tips
- Select plants that have the same light and water needs, and think small.
- Cut longer fronds to keep them from touching the glass.
- Instead of using moss, sprinkle grass seed around the plants. Keep moist, and the result is a mini lawn inside the terrarium.
- To make to-scale tools: Cut bamboo sticks to a length of about a foot. Cut handle off old spoon and fork and wire tightly to bamboo sticks. You now have a rake and shovel to use in your very stylish terrarium.
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