Articles brought to you by Cheap Terrariums for Sale
First published on Qassia
1. Select a unique and beautiful container – there are many glass containers that can be used to make a terrarium. A brandy snifter, an old apothecary jar, fish bowls and jugs can all be used for a unique effect. Use your imagination or browse through a home improvement store or garden center for more ideas. Anything that can hold soil and water can be used effectively.
2. Choose your plants – Select plants with different leaf shapes for the most dramatic effect and choose an odd number to plant. Vary the color of the leaves. You could choose a variety of dark and light leaved plants or those with variegated or striped leaves. While you are choosing plants place them together. Do they look attractive next to each other? are they different enough not to look boring?
3. Choose a suitable substrate – You can buy specially prepared soil mixtures for terrariums or use or a mix of 2 parts potting compost, 1 part builders sand and 1 part leaf mold. Course gravel or small stones are used as a base layer covered with sphagnum moss to hold the soil which comes next.
4. Making the terrarium – Cover the bottom in small stones or gravel, add a one inch layer of sphagnum moss and cover with a good layer of potting soil.
5. Adding the plants – Before you take the plants from their containers arrange them until they look attractive. For a terrarium that will be viewed from all sides put the tallest plant in the center surrounded by the smaller plants. For a terrarium that will be viewed only from one side put the tallest at the back with the smaller plants in front.
6. Add some decorations – pieces of bark or driftwood can be added for a natural look. Specially made terrarium ornaments can be purchased or use aquarium ornaments. A small mirror with the edges covered with ground covering plants can simulate a forest pool.
7. Water – use a moderate amount of water. Don’t over do it! If your terrarium has a cover put it in place and observe it for a few days. A small amount of condensation should occur on the glass as the plants release water into the atmosphere which then condenses on the glass walls and is returned to the soil. If there is an excessive amount of water leave the top off for a few hours as water dripping on to the plants will cause the leaves to rot. Putting your finger in the soil can also be a good way to test for water. If the soil is too dry use a mister to add a small amount of water.
8. Placing your terrarium – Place your terrarium in a spot with a moderate amount of light. Do not place in full sunlight.
9. Caring for your terrarium – Check every few days to make sure their is enough water. if the soil is dry add some water with a mister. if water is gathering in the gravel on the bottom leave it for a few days.
10 Enjoy your Terrarium – sit back and enjoy your low maintenance indoor garden!
Image by ex.libris and n.gottier
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