Paper Parade Co.

At this time of year, I just can't get enough green, and although it's a still too early to plant outdoors a miniature garden under glass is a fun and easy way to add a little greenery to an indoor space. All that’s required are a few materials from your local garden shop to create a stylish tabletop garden. 

Step 1: Gather your supplies

You'll need ...

• Glass containers - you can even upcycle jars, look for vintage oversize pickling jars or pick up a glass container from the thrift store. There are usually shelves of glass planters and vessels typically used in flower arrangements.
  
• Plants- select plants with similar needs for care including sunlight.
  
• Activated horticultural charcoal to help deodorize and prevent bacteria and mould
  
• Soil - potting soil mix appropriate for tthe plants
  
• Small stones or pebbles 
• Sphagnum moss is also a nice addition although we didn't include it here. 

Step 2: Add a layer of stones to the container.

Add a 1” layer of stones or pebbles to a clean, dry glass container. The stones will help provide drainage. 

Step 3: Add a layer of charcoal to the container.

Add a ½” to one inch layer of charcoal on top of the stones. This will help keep the soil free from mould. 

Step 4: Add soil to the container.

Add enough soil to the container to allow your plants to fit comfortably. 

Step 5: Add plants to the container.

 
Place your plants in the soil. Add a little extra soil to cover the roots and cover the plants evenly. Place the terrarium in location that gets indirect light. Water lightly, a mister works well.

I love a grouping of terrariums on a coffee table or console table.

How to care for your terrarium. 

Lighting: Terrariums tend to thrive in a well-lit space with indirect light. Although it will depend on the plants that you choose. Be sure to select plants with the same kind of water, light and soil needs. 

Water: Don’t over water! If the plants look a little droopy or the soil is dry it is time to lightly water. Pick yourself up a moisture meter to get an accurate reading of the moisture level. The probe on a moisture meter is placed approximatly 3/4 the depth of the pot and gives you a better sense of whether your plant needs water instead of relying on sticking your finger in the soil. 

Pruning: You may want to prune back plants once they start to grow.