gardening
The tiny world of terrariums
words by
kristee semmler // the barossa nursery
Terrariums are like mini-indoor gardens in a glass container or vase.
Terrariums can either be open to the air, or closed with a lid which essentially, over time, creates its own little ecosystem.
They are easy to make, are a great way to promote mindfulness and can help to reduce stress and anxiety by letting your imagination run wild, creating something beautiful that makes you feel good to look at.
They are a great activity to do with children as they can help to teach them about plants and allow children to care for their own little piece of nature.
They also make an impressive and unique home-made gift!
There are a few important steps to follow when creating a terrarium.
Choose your container
A glass container usually works best. A large vase, fish bowl or dedicated terrarium are all perfect choices.
Drainage or base layer
Terrariums are all about layers and this base layer is one of the most important. Terrarium containers do not have drainage holes, therefore water has nowhere to drain and plant roots do not like sitting in water.
Creating a drainage layer allows any excess water to drain away from the soil, ensuring plant roots don’t become saturated. A three to five centimetre layer of stones or small pebbles is the ideal start to your terrarium.
Charcoal layer
A fine layer of horticultural charcoal is the next layer on top of the drainage pebbles (approximately one quarter of a cup). Charcoal helps to absorb excess moisture, but also filters the water and keeps it clean while preventing odour and bacteria build up.
Soil layer
A well-drained potting mix or terrarium potting mix is the next layer. Make sure you use a premium potting mix for this layer as good soil will ensure healthy growth.
You can add extra perlite to your potting mix if required to help aerate the soil. Put enough potting mix in your terrarium that the roots of the plants you have chosen are fully covered.
Plants
Now the fun part!
Barossa Nursery has a great range of small indoor baby plants perfect for terrariums.
Keep an eye on the height of the plants that they won’t get too big in your terrarium and take over.
Some of my favourite terrarium plants include; Syngoniums, Fittonia, Calatheas, Ferns, Peperomia, Moss or Baby’s Tears.
Just remember most indoor plants generally enjoy a bright but indirect light position inside your home.
If you are wanting a terrarium for a sunny position or windowsill you might be better doing an ‘arid’ terrarium and using succulents and cacti instead which can tolerate more sun.
The number of plants you can plant in your terrarium will depend on the size of the vessel. You want it to look full but not crowded.
Now to decorate
Let your imagination run wild! Decorative stones, interesting rocks or sticks, small pieces of driftwood, shells, mini figurines or fairy garden decor are just some ideas that you can use to create your little indoor garden.
Have fun with it! Decorate it with what makes you happy.
There are no rules to this ‘layer’.
A few extra tips
- Position your (indoor plant) terrarium in a bright but indirect light position.
- Be careful not to overwater and only water when necessary. As mentioned above, terrariums do not have drainage holes so if it gets too much water it will just fill up and your plants will not like it. Sometimes it’s easier to use a spray bottle or mister and mist the soil to moisten rather than using a watering can.
- Suitable plant choice is key. Ask the staff at Barossa Nursery if unsure.
- Creating these mini-indoor gardens is a great activity for any age. The result is a unique feature to enjoy on your table or inside your home.
Happy ‘mini’ gardening!
Kristee Semmler
THE BAROSSA NURSERY
If you have any good gardening old wive’s tales, feel free to share them by leaving a comment online on the Barossa Mag’s website.
I do love hearing a good tale!
In the meantime, happy gardening!