Terrariums last year round, are self-sustaining and portable, making them perfect for renters and urban dwellers. I collect small china plates for my bases and glass dome tops from thrift stores for under $1.00 a piece. Any clear, enclosed container will also do, from mason jars to vintage candy dishes.
A Terrarium in Ten Steps:
- Spread a layer of pea gravel in the bottom of your container.
- Sprinkle activated carbon on top of the gravel. This cleans the water as it filters through the stones and back into the soil again. It can be purchased from a pet store in the aquarium section.
- Scoop on a generous amount of potting soil, finishing off what will look like a three layer cake of earthy goodness.
- Plant 2 or 3 small succulents. Jade plants, cacti and aloe are my favorites with no fuss or muss. Plus they won't quickly outgrow the terrarium.
- Place a thin layer of moss over the soil and around the plants. This gives the illusion of a miniature grass covered world. Get it on the cheap by scavenging sidewalk cracks and local parks.
- Populate your environment with plastic animals, marbles, crystals etc...
- Add a dash of water. Succulents need little water and with the dome it will recycle itself. I have gone for about 3 months at a time without watering mine and even then just very lightly.
- Put a lid on it.
- Display in a sunny place.
- Enjoy!
There are several sellers on Etsy who sell whole terrariums or terrarium accessories. If creating miniatures is your thing, marketing terrarium accessories might be a good venture for you. Check them out for inspiration or a puchase!
I think some of peaches products tiny felted animals would look awesome in a terrarium...hint hint.
ReplyDeleteReally loving these! And you're right, a few of Casey's felted miniatures would be awesome!
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