Terrariums are the next best idea to an expansive indoor garden. Counter minimal space with these beautiful green solutions and what’s more, you can do it yourself!
Terrariums are easy to create, low-maintenance gardens giving an aesthetic appeal to your home. All you need is indirect sunlight, a little water and lots of creative ideas. While gorgeous terrariums are available in the market, they could dig a deep hole in your pocket. Give yourself a creative fix by going in for DIY terrariums plus avoid a dent in your pocket.
Here are ways to go about making your own terrarium:
You will need:
- A clear glass container with a large mouth
- Pebbles, small rocks, broken pottery or colored glass
- Potting soil
- Sand
- Activated carbon/charcoal
- Small plants
- A small shovel or scoop
- Scissors
- Gloves
- Landscaping curios, moss, decorative items (optional)
Procedure:
- Pick any large glass container; it could be an unused coffee pot or a large spice jar. Arrange the rocks and pebbles at the bottom, covering about half to two inches depending on the size of the container. This will create a false drainage, keeping the soil moist and humid especially if your terrarium will be closed with a lid.
- Scoop out the charcoal and pour in just enough to cover the rocks. The charcoal improves the quality of your terrarium as it reduces bacteria, odors and fungi.
- Sprinkle a layer of sand on the charcoal and then the potting soil. Leave enough space to makes holes for the roots of the plants to go in.
- Place the plants in the soil. Plant large ones first, followed by the smaller plants, after trimming the roots and shaking off the loose soil. Do not overcrowd the container; leave sufficient space for decorative pieces or moss around the edges.
- Arrange the accessories, wipe off the dirt, squirt some water and your terrarium is ready.
Maintenance:
- For open terrariums, water once or twice a week. See to it that the soil is always slightly moist and never dry.
- Closed terrariums need water less frequently. Open the lid and check for dryness. If the soil is parched you need to squirt a little water.
- Dead and dry leaves should be removed from the terrarium immediately to maintain the health of the eco system in the terrarium. An overgrown or dead plant should also be taken out.
- Place the terrarium in indirect sunlight as direct sunlight will scorch the glass and trap the heat inside, burning the plants.
Enjoy this little green world in your home. Share the enjoyment by gifting these DIY creations to your dear ones.
