No garden, no problem! Build terrariums and elevate your living space with mini jungles that are easy, fun, and aesthetically pleasing
Jungle in a Jar
When Kavita Rao moved to a new home, she had just one issue – “space crunch”. For someone who grew up amidst greenery, her biggest dilemma was how to add plants in her tiny studio apartment. “That’s when I discovered terrariums. The thrill of a mini garden in my workspace was something that made up for my longing for greenery. Ove time, I have added a few more to my living space and the joy they give me is unexplainable,” says Rao. Kavita is not alone. After prolonged work-from-home regimens, the urge to seek out nature is all but natural. However, space is always an issue in urban establishments.
The answer then is to have a terrarium – a small garden inside clear glass containers. The best part is that they can simply sit on a tabletop or be hung. So, you never have the excuse of not having a green space for want of place. What is even better is that they are fun, easy-to-make, require low maintenance and adapt to your space and style quickly. Aishwarya Kulkarni, communications manager, Epistle, says, “Terrariums need little maintenance and frequent soil changing, or even watering. They are a great addition to interiors as we get to customise them according to the aesthetic of our house. They can be planted in a fish-bowl-shaped container (most common), or a wide range of transparent containers.”
Terrariums serve as miniature plant kingdoms, offering a delightful and engaging creative experience. The key lies in doing it right—procure the appropriate supplies, and in less than half an hour, your terrarium will be ready to adorn your space. Rashmi Closepet, the Managing Director of Itsy Bitsy Pvt. Ltd., provides guidance on ensuring the health of your terrarium. She advises against over-watering, which can lead to root rot. Instead, sparingly spray water at the base of each plant when the soil has almost dried, is what she prescribes. “Most succulents/ cacti thrive in medium-bright, indirect light. Place the succulent terrarium in a bright spot where it receives sunlight. Keep in mind that glass can intensify direct sun, potentially harming the plants,” she adds.
Once your terrarium is crafted, allow it time to come together. “Patience is key to a successful result,” she adds. Introducing a touch of greenery into your home not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to improved indoor air quality. So, are you ready to give your home a mini green makeover?
Step 1: Wash and dry the glass container of your choice
Step 2: Fill the bottom of the container with 1 or 2-inch layer of small pebbles (depending on the size of your glass container) to help drainage in the terrarium
Step 3: Add a thin layer of activated charcoal which helps fight bacterial growth and maintain a fresh environment for the plants
Step 4: Soak dried moss in water, squeeze the extra water and add a layer of damp moss on top of the activated charcoal. The moss must cover the entire surface and form a barrier to prevent the soil from falling into the rocky layers at the bottom
Step 5: Add potting-mix or soil for the plants to grow. Add enough potting-mix to cover the roots of your plants, ideally at least a 2 to 2½ inch layer
Step 6: Gently place the plants into the soil, arranging them in the look you want. Use your fingers and press down the plants with your fingers to prevent air pockets.
Step 7: Decorate with small pebbles, sand, or other decorative items. Water the plants lightly and mist it slightly with water, once a week.