Okay, it’s cold, very cold, here in Pennsylvania. Today it is snowing too with one-three inches expected throughout the day. Uggh! And, to top it off it’s only early February, which makes spring seem so far away.
Well, here’s something that might cheer you up. Plant a terrarium. It’s a lot of fun and super easy to do.
What you need
- Large jar with a lid (I got my at Bed Bath and Beyond but there are many online)
- Gravel or pebbles (enough to line the bottom of the jar)
- Potting soil (make sure that it is a nice soilless mix)
- 2-3 small plants (I got mine at Lowes, button fern, begonia, baby tears)
Give your jar a good washing and dry it well. Add a layer of pebbles to the bottom.
Next add your potting soil. Just enough to plant in.
Then carefully add your plants. You may need to trim some of the roots to make them fit properly. Also you may only want to put a portion of the plant in, which makes this the perfect project to do with a friend or even your kids, making each plant a two for one, or even three for one deal. Here’s a tip: use the eraser end of a pencil to help move things around and tamp in the soil.
Finally, give your new garden a small drink of water and close the lid. The moisture will condense and re-water itself, meaning you will hardly ever have to water again. Add some moss if you can find it, or maybe some interesting miniature figurines. Go to town, make it yours and watch it thrive.
For more information on the history of terrariums check out my article on the Wardian Case here.
Kalliste says
I love the idea of terrariums, I want one with a rock or two and some moss plus a little plant or something.
One thing I’ve been concerned about though is mould. How do you stop them going mouldy?
Patti says
It shouldn’t get moldy. Maybe try and be sure that whatever you put in (rocks) and the original container are pretty clean to start with and that the terrarium gets some light. The one I made during the winter is doing better than ever and I have touched. It kind of amazing. Thanks again for visiting. Have a great weekend.