Terrariums, open vessels or indoor containers, whatever you choose to call them, one thing is for sure – they’re amazing! And the best thing about them is that anyone can make them. You can create many different themed worlds that can be enjoyed from your kitchen to your couch, in fact, anywhere indoors that takes your fancy.
Think about the theme of your small world. Are you after a dry arid landscape, a beach paradise or a lush forest that red riding hood can lose herself in? The best inspiration for designing your terrarium comes from nature itself. Look at photos of beach scapes, rainforests or tropical paradises and think about how you can recreate these images using plant choices and other objects.
Once you have your design set, then look at the jar. Do you want it closed or prefer it open? Many understorey ferns, indoor plants or forest-like plants perform well in closed jars and will require minimal care once properly established. These plants can also be grown in open jars as well, but will require slightly more attention to ensure that they get the water that they need.
Succulents, air plants and cacti perform at their best in open jars as they prefer drier conditions and need good air circulation. If you are a sucker for succulents, an open jar is the only way to go.
With so many plants out there what ones do you choose? For basic designs it is best to look at ‘thrillers’ (the main star of the terrarium), ‘spillers’ (these soften the edges) and ‘fillers’ (great for filling the space).
This is where you can let your creative side out. Think about what stones or features you want to include in your jar. Try out different designs and really let your imagination take hold.
Once you have sorted out the essentials it’s time to create!
You will need:
Step 1: Clean jar and ensure that it is completely dry before placing any objects inside.
Step 2: Add 1.5-2cm layer of stones to the base of the jar to assist with drainage.
Step 3: Cut a piece of paper into a circle or use a small amount of slightly moist sphagnum moss to line the top of the stones. This layer will stop the help prevent the soil moving through to the stones.
Step 4: Place a small amount of activated charcoal on top of the paper. This will assist with the removal of odours and toxins in the potting mix over time.
Step 5: Using the small pot, scoop potting mix into the jar, covering the paper of layer of paper well. Don’t be tempted to place too much soil in to the jar at this stage. It is easier to add to the jar after the plants have been positioned.
Step 6: Create a small well in the centre of the soil. Remove plants from their pots, tickle the soil to remove excess dirt and cut away at the rootball, if necessary.
Step 9: Carefully place a plant into the prepared hole and backfill with potting mix. Repeat for remaining plants, then water in lightly using the sprayer.
Step 10: Level or create mounds in the soil. Clean the sides of the jar with the paintbrush and paper towel, removing any excess water or soil.
Step 11: Funnel the sand into the jar, covering all the soil. Clean any sand from the leaves of the plants and sides of the jar using the paintbrush and paper towel.
Step 12: Position large decorative stones on top of the sand. Give the jar a final clean and light water.
Step 13: Place terrarium in a sheltered indoor area that receives plenty of indirect light. Water lightly each week using a sprayer filled with water.
Yates 500mL Thrive Indoor Plants Liquid Plant Food
Yates 500mL Thrive Indoor Plants Liquid Plant Food
Insiders Guide to buying plants at a nursery
How to look after your bonsai
Insiders Guide to buying plants at a nursery
Insiders Guide to buying plants at a nursery
