Vancouver Sun

Modern terrariums let imaginatio­n take root

- BY HARRIETT HENDREN MCT

Terrariums, miniature gardens enclosed in glass, are bigger than ever in home décor. And the current crop of indoor displays for your house or office feature an amazing selection of containers.

Everything from succulents to ferns and moss can be grown in these indoor gardens, which have been popular as far back as the 1800s. Elegant Victorians­tyle cases remain popular, but contempora­ry styles include delicate hanging orbs, hand- blown pitchers and simple jars.

Beyond local garden stores, you’ll find terrariums at a variety of furniture and home décor shops.

West Elm, for example, offers a selection of hanging glass bubbles designed by artist Shane Powers. Ranging from $ 20 to $ 75 at Westelm. com, they’re affordable enough to hang in groups for an eye- catching display.

Better Homes & Gardens magazine devoted several pages to terrariums in its January issue, including tips from Tovah Martin, author of The New Terrarium.

Martin suggests sticking to small plants and clear containers. Gather your favourite plants in your own piece of glass, or buy terrariums already assembled from an array of stores.

Ready- made designs at Etsy. com include apothecary- style jars filled with moss, pine cones and river stones from Doodle Bird Imaginariu­ms. The tiniest of terrariums may be worn as necklaces or rings, and several online storefront­s offer accents for your container, including mini ceramic mushrooms, deer and farm animals.

 ??  ?? West Elm offers a selection of terrariums, including these open- face varieties.
West Elm offers a selection of terrariums, including these open- face varieties.

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