Terraria or Terrariums are large sealable or open glass container used for indoor gardening. It contains soil and plants and can be opened for maintenance purposes for the plants inside. They can either be open or closed with a movable door. The closed door terrariums usually have a unique atmosphere suitable for the growth of the plants housed inside. Terrariums are transparent to allow heat and light to enter into the container and support life and enable photosynthesis. It also has its own water cycle scaled down as per the terrarium. The moisture from the soil and plants evaporate into the atmosphere of the terraria and then falls back down in the form of dews when the water vapour condenses due to the heat. This enables the plants to have a suitable environment for growth and sustenance.
Setting a terrarium is simple and will help you to enjoy the benefits of a garden without having to spend a tonne of your time outside in the sun trying to prune an unruly bush or deal with confusing amounts of various fertilizers. The fuss-free maintenance, minimal requirements including space and your time along with the aesthetic it provides, makes setting up a terrarium very popular. People who do not own any outdoor space can also setup one making it all the more attractive.
Terrariums are simple and can be turned into an easy afternoon DIY project. In this video we will help you with tips and tricks to setup one.
You will need a class container- either with or without lid, pebbles or small stones, activated charcoal, soil for potting and plants. Start with a layer of pebbles as the lowest layer; it should be at least half an inch or more as per the container you are using. It is your drainage layer and will ensure water settlement and prevent flooding. Next add a layer of charcoal. You only need to add a very thin layer. It will help prevent any bacterial or fungi growth and improve the quality of your terraria. Next add the potting soil. Use soil appropriate to the type of plant you are going to use. Succulents require porous soil, or any other kind of soil that is appropriate to the plant. The plants you want to use also must do well in high humidity. They should be pint sized only and you can prune extra branches off the plant to fit it into the terarria. Air plant, nerve plant or succulents work well in terrariums. You can also use assorted cactuses as well. Start by planting the largest plants first. Make a whole in the soil as per the roots of the plant and nestle the plant into the soil. Work your way forward by planting rest of the plants. You can arrange them however you like. Make sure to keep them away from the sides and do not overcrowd. They can touch the sides but try to keep them away from the sides as much as possible.
Next add accessories like moss, toys, or glass beads or pebbles. Clean off the sides of the container and you are done. Monitor the water levels and spray water only when you feel the soil getting dry and have lost moisture. Enjoy your terrarium!
