Growing plants in a glass container, like a terrarium, involves creating a self-contained ecosystem. Here's how to do it successfully:
1. Choose Your Container:
- Select a clear glass container. Open containers are generally easier to maintain, while closed containers create a humid environment suitable for specific plants.
2. Gather Your Materials:
- Drainage Layer: Gravel, pebbles, or broken pottery shards (approximately 1-2 inches).
- Barrier Layer: Landscape fabric or mesh to prevent soil from mixing with the drainage layer.
- Growing Medium: Potting mix appropriate for the plants you choose. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.
- Activated Charcoal (Optional): A thin layer to help filter water and reduce odors.
- Plants: Choose small, slow-growing plants that thrive in similar conditions (e.g., succulents, ferns, mosses).
- Decorations (Optional): Small stones, figurines, or other decorative elements.
3. Layer Your Terrarium:
- Drainage: Place the drainage layer at the bottom of the container.
- Barrier: Cover the drainage layer with landscape fabric or mesh.
- Charcoal (Optional): Add a thin layer of activated charcoal.
- Soil: Add the potting mix. The amount will depend on the size of your plants.
4. Plant Your Terrarium:
- Carefully remove the plants from their original pots.
- Gently loosen the roots.
- Create a small hole in the soil for each plant.
- Plant the plants, ensuring the roots are covered with soil.
- Arrange the plants to create a visually appealing arrangement.
5. Water and Maintain Your Terrarium:
- Watering: Water sparingly. The soil should be moist, not soggy. Water only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common problem. Aim for once a week with a small amount of water. Ensure water drains to the bottom gravel layer.
- Light: Place the terrarium in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can overheat the terrarium and scorch the plants or promote algae growth.
- Ventilation: For closed terrariums, occasionally open the lid to allow for ventilation and prevent excess condensation.
- Pruning: Prune any dead or overgrown leaves to keep the plants healthy and maintain the desired appearance.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly, if at all. Terrarium plants don't require much feeding.
6. Choosing The Right Plants
| Plant Type | Example Plants | Light Needs | Watering Needs | Container Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Succulents | Echeveria, Sedum, Haworthia | Bright, Indirect Sun | Infrequent | Open |
| Tropical | Ferns, Mosses, Peperomia | Low to Medium Light | Regular | Closed |
| Air Plants | Tillandsia | Bright, Indirect Sun | Mist Regularly | Open |
Important Considerations:
- Algae Growth: Prevent algae growth by avoiding direct sunlight and overwatering. If algae appear, remove them manually.
- Condensation: Some condensation is normal in closed terrariums. Excessive condensation can indicate overwatering.
- Plant Compatibility: Choose plants that have similar light, water, and humidity requirements.
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and thriving plant display within a glass container.
