How to Build a Terrarium

Have you ever gone nature tripping? Would you like to capture some of nature's loveliness and bring it indoors? Well, then, let's learn how to make a terrarium!

We'll start off with the simplest type of terrarium I found on the net.

Materials:

Clear glass or plastic container

Gravel or small stones

Activated charcoal (from aquarium or orchid supply store)

Potting soil

Plants

Decorative objects (optional)

Selecting your container:

You can use a clear glass jar with a wide mouth, old aquarium or fish bowl. Plastic 2-L bottle can also be utilized by cutting it in half, and sliding the top half over the bottom half to cover. It is important that your container has a wide opening for easy placement and arrangement of plants and other materials. It must also be big enough to house everything you need to place inside.

Selecting your plants:

You don't need to buy plants for this project. In fact, it would be more creative and adventurous if you gather them from your yard, neighborhood or countryside. Just make sure that your collection belongs to the same plant community that needs the same amount of water and sunlight. The number of plants to install inside your container will depend on their sizes. As a general rule, keeping an odd number of plants is more pleasing to the eye.

Building your terrarium:

1) Sterilize your container by washing it with hot, soapy water. Rinse and dry completely.

2) Create a drainage layer by placing a thin layer (approx. 1 inch) of gravel in the bottom of the container.

3) Place a thin layer (approx. 1/2 inch) of activated charcoal over the gravel. This serves as a filtration substrate and keeps the water cleaner.

4) Place a layer of potting soil approximately 2 inches deep.

5) Dig small holes for the roots. Remove plants out of their pots, take out extra soil from the roots, and snip off damaged leaves if any. While the roots are still moist, carefully place the plants in the holes and pat soil over the roots. Taller plants should be placed in the back. Water the plants sparsely ( 3 or 4 ounces).

6) Add ornaments or decorations (optional)