Why Learn to Make Terrariums?
If you live in a small city apartment, you may sometimes wish you had space for a garden, but it isn't practical. A terrarium is the next best thing. A complete garden in a sealed container, a terrarium is a miniature ecosystem that will live for a long time as long as it is sealed and kept at a relatively steady temperature. Read on to find out how to create these beautiful and relaxing works of art.
What is a Terrarium?
Terrariums are miniature gardens enclosed in glass, designed to mimic natural ecosystems. They bring the beauty and tranquility of nature indoors in a compact and visually stunning form. These tiny green worlds can be either open or closed, depending on the type of plants they contain. Tropical plants and moss thrive in sealed environments, while succulents and cacti are best suited for open terrariums. Regardless of the design, terrariums require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for both seasoned plant enthusiasts and beginners.
The story of terrariums begins in the 19th century with Dr. Nathaniel Ward. His accidental discovery that plants could thrive in a sealed glass jar led to the invention of the "Wardian case." This innovation not only enabled the safe transport of plants across continents but also became a fixture in Victorian households. Over time, the Wardian case evolved into the terrariums we know today, cherished for their blend of artistry and functionality.
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What Do You Need to Build a Terrarium?
You don't need anything fancy to create a terrarium. Building a terrarium is both an accessible craft and a rewarding challenge. The essential materials include a glass container, layers of substrate such as gravel, activated charcoal, and potting soil, and, of course, the plants themselves. Small tools like tweezers and scoops help place plants and decorative elements with precision. Many people like to personalize their terrariums with stones, figurines, or moss, turning them into miniature works of art. The creative possibilities are endless, and each terrarium becomes a unique reflection of its creator.
Containers
Any clear container large enough to hold plants is fine for a terrarium. You can buy fancy glass vessels with wooden lids or reuse a large jar. Glass is preferable to plastic because there is a slight chance it might leach chemicals into the soil or plants, but you can use a plastic clamshell from the grocery store as long as it doesn't have any holes in it.
You can grow cacti and succulents like jade plants, haworthia, and echeveria in open containers. Plants in open containers need to be watered regularly, although cacti and succulents prefer drier conditions than ferns and peromias. Shallow clay dishes are perfect for open terrariums.Â
Soil or Moss
You can use soil, moss, or both in your terrarium. Soil provides support and nutrition to the plants and retains water. If you are new to terrarium building, it's a good idea to buy soil. You can use potting soil or a special terrarium mix. The type of soil you choose will depend on the plants you are going to include.
Plants
Choose plants that will not grow too large for the container. Miniature or dwarf varieties are preferred. Here are some popular choices:
- Succulents: Succulents and cacti are a group of plants that store water in their leaves. This helps them survive in harsh, dry conditions where rainfall is scarce. Succulents prefer a warm environment, which makes them perfect indoor plants for a sunny spot. These plants also come in many interesting colors. These plants prefer a sandy soil. Some succulents that are often used in terrariums include:
- Examples: Cacti, Haworthia, Echeveria, and Crassula
- Ferns: Ferns are ancient plants that reproduce using spores instead of flowers. Ferns thrive in wet environments, but it is possible to overwater them. They grow well in a deep bark-based compost about 12 inches deep. Moss is another attractive addition. Some good ferns to use in a terrarium are:
- Examples: Maidenhair, birds nest, and button ferns
- Air plants:Air plants are part of the bromeliad family, which also includes pineapples. Air plants do not need soil, but they do need light. In their natural environment, air plants absorb water from the humid air, but the average home is too dry. The humid conditions of a terrarium are perfect for these tropical plants. There are numerous varieties of Tillandisas or air plants.
- Peperomia: Peperomias are native to Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean and young plants do well in terrariums. Some varieties of Peperomias include:
- Examples: Radiator plants, rubber plants, and string of turtles
- Carnivorous plants: Terrariums are a perfect environment for carnivorous plants, which like a moist environment like a bog or swamp. Carnivorous plants do best in open terrariums. Some popular varieties are:
- Examples: Venus fly traps, pitcher plants, sundew plants
Tools
You don't need any specialized tools to put together a terrarium. A large spoon that fits through the neck of the container is helpful for adding soil. A pair of long tweezers, like the kind used to feed reptiles, is useful for placing plants and other elements.
Rocks and Decorations
Many people like to add decorations to their terrariums. Some things you might consider are natural materials like rocks, crystals, and small pieces of wood. You can create miniature scenes with small figurines of animals, statues, or buildings. Your imagination is your only limitation.
What Are the Benefits of Learning to Create a Terrarium?
There are many benefits of making and maintaining a terrarium. You can create your own little green oasis no matter how small your apartment may be. Imagine having a miniature garden to look at even if you don't have a yard. Terrariums are perfect for people who love nature but live in a city. They also stimulate creativity, as designing a terrarium involves crafting a living work of art. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, terrariums are an excellent educational tool. They demonstrate principles of plant biology and ecosystem dynamics, offering insights into how living systems sustain themselves. As a practical bonus, terrariums improve indoor air quality, contributing to a healthier living environment.
Earning Money
Most people learning to create terrariums as a manageable way to connect with nature. The art of making terrariums also holds potential for income. These charming creations are popular as home decor and thoughtful gifts. With some skill and creativity, you can sell custom terrariums tailored to individual preferences or teach others through workshops. Collaborating with local stores to supply ready-made terrariums is another way to turn your passion into profit. Online platforms like Etsy and craft fairs provide accessible avenues for reaching customers, making it easier than ever to share your creations with the world.
Relieving Stress
Beyond their aesthetic and monetary value, terrariums can also be therapeutic. The process of building and maintaining a terrarium can be meditative, helping to reduce stress and promote mindfulness. Studies have shown that interacting with nature, even on a small scale, can lower cortisol levels and improve mood. In a busy, fast-paced world, tending to a terrarium offers a moment of calm and connection to the natural world.
Joining a Community
For those seeking inspiration and camaraderie, joining a terrarium community is a great way to deepen your interest. Online forums, social media groups, and local workshops provide opportunities to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and find motivation. These communities are invaluable for learning advanced techniques, discovering new trends, and participating in events like competitions or showcases.
How to Learn to Build Terrariums
If you’re eager to start your terrarium journey, there are plenty of resources to guide you. Online tutorials, blogs, and videos offer step-by-step instructions suitable for beginners. Workshops, both in-person and virtual, provide hands-on experience and personalized guidance. When you sign up for a virtual terrarium-making workshop, you will receive a kit before class containing plants, a glass container, moss, colored pebbles and a small figurine, plus instructions on how to care for the terrarium. Classes are held on Zoom or another video conferencing platform and led by an experienced instructor.
Books, like Terrariums Reimagined by Kat Geiger and The New Terrarium by Tovah Martin, delve deeper into the art and science of terrarium making, offering inspiration for both novices and experienced creators. Ultimately, the best teacher is practice—start small, experiment with different designs, and learn through trial and error.
Terrariums are more than just decorative pieces; they represent a blend of creativity, sustainability, and a love for life. Whether you’re drawn to the aesthetic charm, the therapeutic value, or the entrepreneurial opportunities, learning to make terrariums is a fun and worthwhile activity. Embark on this journey, and discover the joy of creating and nurturing your very own miniature worlds.
Key Takeaways
- Terrariums are small indoor gardens filled with plants.
- They can be open or closed, depending upon the type of plants you use.
- Because terrariums require minimal maintenance, they are perfect for people who love nature but don't have a yard.
- Terrariums developed from the Wardian case, a glass container used to transport tropical plants to colder climates.
- To construct a terrarium, you will need a container, soil or moss, plants, rocks and decorations, and a few simple tools.
- If terrarium-making becomes your passion, you can sell them online or at craft fairs.
- Many people find making terrariums relaxing and a good way to relieve stress.
- You can join a terrarium community in-person or online to share ideas and meet other terrarium lovers.
- Taking a class is a good way to learn how to make a terrarium.