We'll explore and clarify the truths behind common myths to better understand the creation and upkeep of terrariums.
Terrariums, with their unique charm and miniature landscapes, have captivated the imaginations of gardening enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. However, along with their popularity, several myths and misconceptions have arisen, leading to confusion and misinformation. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths and shed light on the realities of creating and maintaining these delightful ecosystems.
Reality: While they require less maintenance than traditional gardens, they are not entirely maintenance-free. Closed terrariums recycle water and nutrients, minimizing the need for watering, but they still require occasional pruning, cleaning, and monitoring for pests or diseases. Open terrariums, especially those with succulents or cacti, need regular watering, albeit less frequently than houseplants, due to their enclosed environment and the water-retentive qualities of their substrates.
Reality: Not all plants are suited for terrarium life. Terrarium plants must be able to thrive in the humid, stable environment of a closed system or the drier conditions of an open terrarium. Succulents and cacti, for example, often do poorly in closed terrariums due to the high humidity. Conversely, tropical plants that thrive on moisture, such as ferns and mosses, may struggle in an open terrarium. Choosing plants that are suited to your indoor garden type is crucial for success.
Reality: Terrariums can indeed be sealed for years, creating self-sustaining ecosystems that recycle moisture and nutrients. Some, like the renowned “Latimer Terrarium,” have thrived sealed for decades (since 1960), showcasing how, under the right conditions, a closed terrarium can recycle water, nutrients, and gases, allowing it to thrive over extended periods.
However, the success of creating a permanently sealed, self-sustaining indoor garden hinges on a balanced setup where all components of the ecosystem (light, water, air, and biomass) are in harmony. While it’s possible to create such a self-sustaining system, it’s worth noting that achieving this balance can be challenging, especially for beginners. The recommendation to occasionally check on the terrarium and possibly open it to adjust moisture levels acknowledges that, despite our best efforts, creating a perfectly balanced ecosystem is complex, and interventions may still be beneficial in some cases.
Reality: Like all plants, those in glass gardens need light to photosynthesize. However, the amount and intensity of light required can vary. Most plants prefer bright, indirect light. Placing a terrarium in direct sunlight can cause overheating and harm the plants, especially in closed terrariums. Artificial grow lights can be a solution if natural light is insufficient.
Reality: The size of your glass garden should be appropriate for the plants it contains and the space where it will be displayed. A terrarium that is too large for its plants can lead to sparse, unattractive arrangements, while one that is too small can become overcrowded quickly. The key is to match the size to the growth habits and needs of the plants.
Reality: Activated charcoal can help filter water and reduce odors, potentially lowering the risk of mold growth, but it does not guarantee a mold-free environment. Proper ventilation, avoiding overwatering, and choosing the right substrate are also crucial steps in preventing mold. If mold appears, it’s essential to address it promptly to prevent it from spreading.
Reality: While terrariums are popular as indoor decorations, they can also be placed outdoors in suitable climates and during the appropriate seasons. When placed outdoors, they need protection from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions. However, they can be a beautiful addition to patios, balconies, or sheltered garden spaces.
Terrariums are a fascinating and rewarding hobby that blend art, gardening, and ecology. With proper care, selection of suitable plants, and attention to the needs of the ecosystem within, these min gardens can thrive and bring a touch of green serenity to any space.
Terrarium care involves a balance of light, watering, and occasional maintenance to ensure a healthy miniature ecosystem. Here’s a concise guide:
Provide bright, indirect light for most glass gardens. Direct sunlight can overheat enclosed spaces, harming plants.
Closed terrariums rarely need water due to their self-contained moisture cycle. Open terrariums require more attention, with watering needed when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Use a spray bottle for a gentle approach, avoiding over-watering.
Closed terrariums naturally have high humidity. Monitor for excessive condensation and open the lid briefly to air out if needed. Open ones generally don’t have issues with humidity but may benefit from misting in very dry conditions.
Use a layering approach with pebbles or gravel at the bottom for drainage, followed by activated charcoal to keep the environment fresh, and then a layer of potting soil suited to your plant types.
Selecting the right plants is crucial for the success and longevity of your glass garden, ensuring that the mini ecosystem you create will thrive.
Prune plants to prevent overcrowding, remove dead or dying foliage to keep your glass garden healthy, and clean the glass for aesthetic purposes and to ensure adequate light reaches the plants.
For closed terrariums, occasional opening helps exchange air and adjust humidity, contributing to plant health.
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
