ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE (2+1)

Terrariums

• A terrarium is a transparent glass or plastic container with soil on which plants are grown. It has an open or closed top and is used for displaying growing plants as a miniature landscape.


• Containers - Almost any type of clear glass or plastic container can be used for a terrarium: fish bowl, fish tank, glass jar, jug or bottle. There are also containers made especially for terrariums. The container must be clear to allow light.


• Containers can be closed or open. Plants in closed containers must be tolerant of high humidity. Containers with large openings without covers may be used but will require more frequent watering to maintain humidity.


• Plants – Low growing plants are best. Large plants can be used and kept small by pruning. Plants with variations in size, texture and color as well as adaptability are chosen.

Some foliage plants that do well in a small-mouthed terrarium:

Creeping fig (Ficus pumila)
Copper plant (Cordyline terminalis)
Ribbon plant (Dracaena sanderiana)
Earth star (Cryptanthus acaulis)
Prayer plants (Maranta sp.)
Parlour palm (Chamaedorea elegans)


Soil - Soil must be high in organic matter, clean and well-drained. Since plants are not meant to grow rapidly, adding fertilizer is not necessary. Mixture of peat, pine bark and rich garden soil can be used. The soil must be sterilized. Relatively dry soil should be added to the container.

Location for the terrarium - Most plants require light near a window or supplemental artificial light. The terrarium should be located within several feet of a bright window but not in direct sun.

Planting -

• The container is sterilized before planting. In general, about a quarter of the container will be used for drainage material and soil. A layer of gravel is placed in the bottom of the container for drainage. Next, a ½-inch layer of charcoal is placed above the pebbles to keep the soil from developing a sour smell. Sphagnum moss may be placed over the charcoal to prevent soil from sifting into the drainage area.


• Plants should be arranged so that taller plants are towards the back. A low, coarse-textured plant makes a dominant focal point near the front. Sand, rocks, shells, wood and other natural materials can be used for visual interest. If the terrarium is to be viewed from all directions, the display should have a hill in the middle.


• It is very important when planting a terrarium that all plants be insects and disease free. Any Leaves that are yellow damaged or show any sign of disease or insect damage are removed.


• When placing plants in a deep container, or one with a small opening, long, slender tongs or a stick with a wire loop on the end must be used. A long stick with a cork fixed on the end can be used for firming the soil. Moss and other accessories may be added to give a finished appearance.

Care after planting:

• Open terrariums need occasional watering.
• Watering should always be light.
• Heavy watering results water logging.
• With a little trimming the overgrowing plants can be kept under control.
• Frequent pinching of growing tips will result in more balanced growth.