If
your green thumb is itching for something to do this winter, consider
putting together a terrarium. Terrariums are small, covered glass or
plastic containers. They are different than dish gardens or miniature
gardens, which are open. Terrariums are enclosed, forming their own
biospheres and therefore retaining higher humidity levels, negating the
need for watering. Terrariums can be traced as far back as Ancient
Greece.
Some
basic principles of terrarium design are that the container and lid
must be clear glass or clear plastic to allow light to penetrate. Also,
the plant medium must be well-drained and high in organic matter.
Woodland
plants like partridge berry, ferns, and birch or hemlock seedlings are
good choices. Tropical plants, which thrive in high humidity, and
carnivorous plants that flourish in boggy, highly acidic conditions are
suitable for terrariums as well.
A
few more tips: Because of the high humidity in a terrarium, desert
plants will not do well, and don't place terrariums in full sun or
they'll dry out.
