Choose a terrarium
You could use an old fish tank, a glass jar, a vase, or an old carboy or demijohn – look for a container with a large enough opening that allows you to access the centre for planting. Glass terrariums work better than plastic, and they look nicer too. A 30cm (1ft) diameter terrarium is an effective size, as it works well for plants and makes a great feature. Generally speaking, the larger your terrarium is, the easier it is to care for.
Ingredients
● A clear glass vessel.
● Grit or gravel, to form a drainage layer at the base of your terrarium.
● Activated charcoal (available online and from aquarium shops) to keep the compost sweet.
● Peat-free coir compost.
● A bucket and water, to soak your block of coir compost in, prior to planting.
● A piece of weed suppressant fabric, or a remnant of cotton material: to keep the compost above from blending into your drainage layer below. Cut your material to size to cover the base of your terrarium.
● Terrarium plants: Choose ones that are suited to lower light levels and high humidity – avoid succulents and cacti.
● A piece of rubber matting to place under your finished terrarium.
● Long-handled terrarium tools are available.
Instructions
● Wash your clear glass terrarium and leave to dry.
● If your coir compost arrives in block form, you’ll need to soak the compost in a bucket of water for up to 45 minutes before planting. Check the compost after 15 minutes, as you may need to add more water.
● Water your plants to ensure that they’re hydrated and ready to be planted.
● Place a 2.5cm (1in) layer of grit and activated charcoal in the base of your terrarium.
● Sprinkle a thin layer of activated charcoal over the top.
● Place your piece of weed suppressant fabric over the top, covering the grit, keeping your compost separate from the drainage layer below.
● Ensure that your coir compost has had time to soak and is moist but not waterlogged, then mix a tablespoon of activated charcoal into your coir compost and add this compost mix to your terrarium. The compost should be about 6.5cm (2½in) deep.
● Now you’re ready to plant! Position your plants inside your
terrarium to find an arrangement you’re happy with before you begin planting.
● Place your planted terrarium onto the piece of rubber matting, this creates a cushioned surface to protect it.
Finished!
Position your planted terrarium in a bright to semi-shaded position, away from harsh, direct sunlight and extremes of temperature. The middle of the room is usually a good location. If your room is very bright, place your terrarium in a corner, further away from the window.
Terrarium maintenance
● If you water your plants before planting and use moist compost you won’t need to water your terrarium for a few days at least.
● It’s easier to add water than remove it, so feel the compost around your plants’ roots and check the moisture levels before you water.
● Don’t place your terrarium on a windowsill. To avoid leaf scorch, place your terrarium away from bright, direct light. If you notice that your plants’ leaves have become marked, try moving your terrarium further away from the light.