If there’s a unique hobby that’s getting picked up by many Filipino’s these days, it would be taking care of plants. And while gardening and outdoor landscaping is quite a fun and engaging craft that people can spend quality time on accomplishing, some would often start small and exotic.
Terrariums have become increasingly popular in recent years for their ability to bring a touch of nature into small indoor spaces. A terrarium is essentially a miniature garden enclosed within a container; similar to an aquarium but for plants. Terrariums come in different aesthetics and forms, ranging from open-air designs to completely enclosed ecosystems. And with different terrariums come different ways to properly care for them. This is especially true if you want to take care of unique and rare plants that add proper aesthetics to your rooms.
Plant Fundamentals – Caring for a Terrarium:
As mentioned previously, terrariums come in different states and each variant has its own specific way of care and management. That said, there are some basic needs that you can learn if you want to start growing and developing your plants inside a closed ecosystem. The first step in caring for a terrarium is to choose the right container. Terrariums can be made in nearly any type of container, from glass jars to ceramic vases. However, some plants require specific environments and spaces to grow. When selecting a container, you’ll want to keep in mind the size of the plants you’ll be using, as well as the amount of sunlight they’ll require. It’s also important to make sure the container has proper drainage, as excess water can lead to mold and bacteria growth.
Once you’ve selected your container, it’s time to add the appropriate soil and plants. Most terrariums use a combination of potting soil and sand or gravel for drainage. Basic terrarium maintenance also deals with selecting appropriate plants. You can choose species that thrive in humid environments and don’t require direct sunlight. Some popular plants for terrariums include ferns, mosses, and succulents, while the more challenging ones involve small trees and miniature plants.
After your terrarium is planted, it’s important to keep it hydrated and well-maintained. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Instead, water your terrarium sparingly and only when the soil is dry to the touch. You’ll also want to periodically trim back any overgrown plants to maintain the overall design.
5 Terrarium Must-Haves That You Can Get Online.
Now that you have the basics down, it’s time to make your terrariums your own! You can choose among these important tools to help you maintain your cared plants, while also adding a bit of aesthetic on them.
One of the most important aspects of caring for a terrarium is having the right tools. Tweezers, small scissors, and a spray bottle are all must-haves for maintaining your miniature garden. A long-handled tool can also be useful for reaching deep into the terrarium without disturbing the plants., while the spray bottles help you maintain and control your plant’s hydration.
A well-designed terrarium includes not only plants but also decorative elements. Small rocks, shells, and small figurines can all add visual interest to your miniature garden. Some stones could also glow in the dark, giving more color to your terrariums even at night. When choosing decorative elements, make sure they’re appropriate for the size of your container and won’t overcrowd the plants.
While most terrariums don’t require direct sunlight, they do need some form of lighting to thrive. A small LED light or grow light can provide the necessary light for your plants to grow and thrive. Some lighting could also add a bit of life to your plants with their sun-like properties.
Maintaining the proper humidity level is critical for the health of your terrarium. A humidity gauge can help you monitor the humidity levels and adjust as necessary. Keeping your terrarium in a room with a consistent temperature and humidity level can also help maintain the overall health of your plants.
While most terrarium plants don’t require fertilizer, adding a small amount of diluted fertilizer can help promote growth and keep your plants healthy. Choose a fertilizer that’s specifically formulated for terrariums and follow the instructions carefully. Over-fertilizing can be harmful to your plants, so it’s important to use fertilizers sparingly.
Terrariums are a beautiful and low-maintenance way to bring a touch of nature into your home or office. By selecting the right container, soil, and plants, and maintaining proper lighting and humidity levels, you can create a miniature garden that will thrive for years to come. And with the right tools, decorative elements, and fertilizers, you can take your terrarium design to the next level.
