TERRARIUM TIPS!

A terrarium is a special type of indoor gardening container that is partially or completely enclosed to allow heat and light in while keeping moisture out. With only a few inexpensive materials, you can make a basic terrarium in less than an hour. Even for those who consider themselves to be plant-challenged, terrariums make wonderful and impressive gifts.

1. Look For A Container That Fits Your Needs.

Find a vase, canning jar, apothecary jar, candy dish, cookie jar, or whatever jar you can find. It will be easier if you can get your hands into the mouth of whatever you're going to use. A lid reduces the amount of cleanup required in the environment. Even if the container doesn't have a lid, you can always cover it with a glass plate or leave it open to check for moisture more frequently.

2. Choose Plants That Are Suitable.

Compact, humidity-loving, and low-light-tolerant plants are ideal for closed-top terrariums. Mosses and ferns, as well as orchids, bromeliads, and a variety of other easy-to-find houseplants, are all good choices. Cactuses, succulents, and most herbs (mints are fine) should be avoided in an open-top terrarium because they prefer bright light and low humidity.

3. Fill The Container With Potting Soil.

Choose a light, humus-rich potting mix as your planting medium. Add enough soil to completely cover the plant's roots.

4. Put The Foundation In Place.

To aid drainage, add small pebbles to the base layer. To absorb excess moisture and reduce bacteria and odours, top with a thin layer of charcoal.