| A big secret to successful indoor gardening in a glass | | | | Next, add a thin covering of sphagnum moss to |
| terrarium starts before the first plant is even | | | | prevent the soil from sifting and settling down into |
| purchased. Yes, plant selection is important but | | | | the drainage layers of pebbles and charcoal. The |
| choosing an appropriate container and following the | | | | moss still allows the water to drain but keeps the soil |
| correct four step layering process helps the garden | | | | in place. |
| flourish. | | | | Finally, add a good quality potting soil. Some people |
| First determine if you want a mini-garden full of | | | | prefer to use a potting soil formulated specifically for |
| humidity loving plants or those that prefer dryer | | | | terrariums while others are just as successful with a |
| conditions. If you go down the humidity path, you'll | | | | regular potting mix. However, if you want to use |
| want to select a container with a lid that will capture | | | | cactus to create a desert theme terrarium, you may |
| the moisture and create the humidity you need. | | | | want to investigate a pre-mixed soil that contains |
| Beautiful, decorative glass terrariums and stands add | | | | more sand. Regardless, never add beach sand to any |
| to any home decor while still providing openings for | | | | terrarium. Too much salt! |
| ventilation as needed. Otherwise, an open top vessel | | | | After getting your plants in place, think about adding |
| like an aquarium, vase, or bottle will also work. | | | | finishing touches like a small statue, bridge, or accent |
| Plants in any glass terrarium do better when a | | | | rocks to accessorize the terrarium and build on the |
| layered planting process is used - starting with a layer | | | | theme of the miniature garden. Be creative in |
| of coarse sand or pebbles at the bottom for | | | | choosing these elements just as you would in |
| drainage. | | | | accessorizing your home. |
| Using activated charcoal as the next layer is especially | | | | Indoor gardening with a glass terrarium can be just |
| important in a container with a top or lid. Just like | | | | as rewarding as gardening outside - as long as you |
| when it's used in an aquarium filter for the fish, the | | | | correctly layer the foundation. Look for containers |
| charcoal acts as a filter to keep the air fresh for the | | | | that will show off these miniature gardens as home |
| plants inside the container. | | | | decor essentials. |