1. TERRARIUM

TERRARIUM

    Concept
    A terrarium is a transparent glass or plastic container with plants grown in it to make a miniature landscape. It has an open or closed top. Many kinds of containers can be used for terrariums. These clear-sided containers have no drain holes and usually have a clear top. 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. The introduction of the art of the terrarium is generally credited with Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward as early as 1842.
    Terrarium planting is a specialized part of home gardening. Terrariums provide a humid atmosphere that allows growing of forest plants at home. The theory behind the terrarium is that in a closed container the moisture which the plants take up through their roots and transpire through their leaves is condensed and eventually returns to the soil again, keeping the plants watered and at the same time keeping the air within the container at a point below saturation.

    Containers
    The originality of a terrarium depends on the type of containers and plants used and the way of arrangement. Any glass container can serve as a terrarium, provided that it is transparent. A large glass jar, a fish bowl or an old aquarium can also be used. Alternatively, there are some very attractive containers made of wood and glass or plastic available in the market. Terrariums do not require drain holes at the bottom of the container.

    Containers
    Soil mixes and additives
    Clean, sterilized peat moss based soilless mix with vermiculite or perlite will enable the soil to hold moisture and oxygen. There should be an initial layer of gravel for drainage (one part gravel to two parts soilless mix). Charcoal can be added to absorb odour. Sand is used in a desert terrarium. Sand should be washed and made free of salts.
    Watering
    When your plants are all in position, the soil should be well watered. The frequency with which terrariums must be watered after they have been started depends on how much ventilation they are given. Generally, a terrarium garden will need watering only once every few months.
    Lighting
    Terrarium plants need sunlight, but in limited amounts. It is important that the plants receive bright, indirect light. Natural sunlight can be filtered through a sheer fabric or white plastic. The lighting is adjusted based on the performance of the plants. Artificial illumination may be provided if required.
    Location
    Location of the terrarium is an important aspect. Succulents like sedum do well in a sunny location whereas plants such as ferns and mosses are suitable for a moist and shady location.
    Terrarium-tools
    • Certain special tools are required especially if the terrarium has a narrow mouth.
    • Tweezers and long sticks can be used to dig holes, move items and support plants while they are being planted.
    • A long, thin spoon will be helpful in placing soil and drainage material in the container.
    • A funnel made from paper or aluminum foil can be used for placing soil into the container.
    • Household scissors are handy for pruning plants before they are planted.
    • An atomizer or bulb-type sprayer will be useful for spraying and watering plants in the terrarium.
    • A stick with a wire loop on the end is handy for lowering plants into large terrariums with small tops.

    Plants for terrarium
    Many of the indoor plants are suitable for the terrarium.
    • Swedish ivy (Plectranthes australis)
    • Sansevieria (Sansevieria trifasciata)
    • Bird’s nest fern (Asplenium trichomanes)
    • Maidenhair fern (Adiantum cuneatum)
    • Philodendron (Philodendron scandens)
    • Irish moss (Selaginella sp.)
    • Artillery plant (Pilea microphylla)
    • Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
    • Nerve plant (Fittonia sp.)
    • Podocarpus (Podocarpus macrophylla)
    • Prayer plant (Maranta sp.)
    • Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
    • African violet (Saintpaulia sp.)
    • Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
    • Club moss (Lycopodium spp.)
    • English ivy (Hedera helix)
    • Flame violet (Episcia dianthiflora)
    • Miniature Begonia rex (Begonia rex-cultorum)
    • Golden pothos (Scindapsis aureus)
    • Hen and chicks (Echeveria spp.)
    • Jade plant (Crassula argentea)
    • Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe tomentosa)
    • Oxalis (Oxalis spp.)
    • Asparagus (Asparagus plumosus)
    • Iresine (Iresine sp.)

Last modified: Saturday, 23 June 2012, 4:10 AM