A terrarium is a transparent glass or plastic
container with soil. It has an open or closed top and is used for displaying
growing plants as a miniature
landscape. When a terrarium is properly planted and located, it can be a source of enjoyment for years, providing an interesting way to grow and display many plants with relatively little care.Almost any type of clear glass or plastic
container can be used for a terrarium: fish bowl, fish tank, glass jar, jug or bottle.. The container must be clear, however, as tinted or cloudy glass reduces light and interferes with plant growth. Plants in closed containers must be tolerant of high humidity. An open container with plants that do not require high humidity works well with less frequent watering. Large plants can be used and kept small by pruning. Do not combine a plant that prefers low light with one that needs high light. Since plants are not meant to grow rapidly, adding fertilizer is not necessary. Sterilize the container before planting. If you use a commercial glass cleaner, allow the open container to air for several days before planting. Determine the arrangement of the plants by either moving them around inside the container (if it has a large opening) or in an open area about the size of the container. Plants should be arranged so that taller plants are toward the back. It is very important when planting a terrarium that all plants be insect- and disease-free. Then place the plants in the container. When planting in a container with a wide opening, use a spoon to scoop out the potting holes. Place each plant so the top of the rootball is level with the top of the soil. Dig holes with a pointed stick before inserting the plants. After the plant has been placed in the hole, fill in with soil and firm gently. After planting, mist to clean soil sticking to the leaves or the sides of the container. If the plants are yellowish and lack vigor without any apparent reason, fertilize very lightly with a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at about one-tenth the rate recommended for normal houseplants. The same directions and precautions must be followed for adding new plants to the terrarium. Terrarium is very much suited for decorating indoors of homes, offices etc.
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