Creating Your Own Terrarium

A terrarium is a collection of small plants that grow in a transparent container which can be either closed or open. Creating your own terrarium is simple and can be addictive. You will love the creativity of choosing plants, containers, and decorations.

Supplies Needed:

• Container
• Small Pebbles
• Charcoal
• Potting Soil
• Bark and/or Moss
• Small Plants

Deciding on the container is a good part of the fun, but we advise to make your selections with some basics in mind. Most terrariums are made from a clear glass vessel. Make sure the opening is wide enough to place your materials. Use vintage jars, mason jars, glass boxes, domes, or geometric terrarium containers.

Small or miniature plants are ideal for terrariums. Choose plants that can tolerate humidity and require moderate sunlight.

Fill the container with a layering of small stones. (Useful tip—use a long handled spoon to make it easier to place material).

• Layer an equal amount of charcoal for drainage and to keep the environment sweet.
• Add about two inches of potting soil.
• Finish with small bark chips or mosses.
• Make a small hole with your spoon for each plant.
• Arrange the plants in decorative way and carefully add water until the soil is moist.

Make the terrarium your own style by adding decorative accents.

A closed terrarium will probably only need water once a year. You’ll know to water when there isn’t any condensation on the glass, or when the soil is dry to the touch, and/or the plants looked stressed. An open terrarium will need more water than a closed one but less than a normal houseplant. Water an open terrarium only when the soil is dry. Terrariums flourish best when they are placed in indirect sun. Direct sunlight can cause the container to heat up and damage the plants.

Not sure about making your own the first time? We have a guided workshop on May 6. You’ll want to register ahead as space is limited. Call 732-919-7770.