by Eleanor Moyer, Clay County Master Gardener Volunteer
I am not the only one who did not want to return to those COVID-era lockdowns that thislatest snow event mimicked. However, I have one friend with a lovely hobby—building doll houses—who relished being caged in with snow. She fashions working lamps, builds real wood parquet floors, etc. I had forgotten how enchanted I was with
miniatures until I saw her creation. Now hers requires many hours, particular supplies, and superlative skills developed over the years. If you are likewise drawn to creating a tiny world, consider planting a terrarium. They happen to be very fashionable at the moment from tiny glass jars to tabletop greenhouses. These creations are not skill-free but will take only a short time to develop.
The first thing needed is a clear, glass vessel. I’ve seen beautiful hanging spheres,
greenhouses that copy those in grand estates, glass storage jars, and every size,
shape, and cost in between. If just beginning, try to use something you already have
that has a fist-size opening. Then decide between the two categories of terrarium:
closed and open. Obviously, a closed terrarium has a lid or glass top that seals the
planter closed creating a unique environment that is mostly self-sufficient. Ferns, moss, orchids, selaginella, peperomia, cryptanthus, air plants, and others that thrive in humid conditions and low light are perfect for a closed terrarium. Open terrariums are suitable for plants requiring less humidity like succulents that do not require full sun but also any mentioned above. I’ve seen pictures of cacti but wonder how they fare with lower light and higher humidity.
Once you have a container, deposit a layer of pebbles or gravel at least an inch thick on the bottom. Aquarium gravel is usually easy to find, but you can use Mother Nature’s just be sure they are small and washed clean. Then cover with a thin layer of
horticultural charcoal. Add damp, not wet, potting soil at least three inches deep.
Terrariums need less fertilizer than regular house plants, so use soil with little or no
fertilizer added.
And now the fun begins! The soil can be mounded and sculptured rather than flattened. Small sticks, driftwood, figures, rocks, or furniture can be placed in whatever esthetic pleases you. Nestle the plants so that the roots are covered, but the leaves do not touch the sides. If a plant is too large, break it apart, pruning a few long root tendrils if necessary. Do not overwater a terrarium. Just a spritz or two is usually sufficient. You never want water pooling in the bottom. The sides can be cleaned using a dry paintbrush. Once a week, open the cover of the closed terrarium for a few hours, and clean the sides of algae or waterspouts using a small sponge tied to a chopstick or wooden spoon. Place the terrarium out of direct sun, but with sufficient light for plants to thrive.
