In honour of the new season that has sprung upon us, it is only fitting that we talk about gardening and all things related. Whether you have green fingers or not, gardening is something everyone can do… you just have to put some love into it. And so, since it is a new season for fresh starts and new goals, let’s try something new and fresh. A terrarium is the answer!

Before we get started, what is a terrarium? A terrarium is a collection of small plants and decorative items placed together in an enclosed environment. Think of it as a miniature garden within a beautiful container, great as an indoor plant and as a decorative item.

What you need

• Glass container
• Small stones or pebbles
• Activated charcoal
• Potting soil
• Plants of your choice
• Garden tools
• Miniature ornaments or trinkets (optional)

Your step-by-step guide

1. Make sure your container is transparent so that you can view and appreciate the beautiful miniature garden. Also make that the container you choose has a space large enough to insert the soil and plants, etc.

2. First, you will need to place a layer of small stones or pebbles at the bottom of the glass container. Since the glass container does not have a hole at the bottom to allow for drainage, the small pebbles will be responsible for holding the water so that excessive moisture doesn’t cause your plants to rot.

3. Next, you will need to add a layer of activated charcoal over the pebbles. There are two reasons for the activated charcoal. First, it prevents bacterial growth in your terrarium. Second, it helps to keep the water fresh so as to prevent rotting.

4. The last layer will consist of potting soil, which makes up the largest portion. Most potting soils are suitable (however, there are special soils you can use for cacti). Make sure that you put enough potting soil to allow enough room for the roots. The recommended amount is about 5 centimeters thick.

5. Now it’s time to start planting. Remove your plant of choice from its container and slightly loosen the roots. Make a large hole in the potting soil and place the plant within. Tip! Start with the bigger plants first; space will become smaller as you plant more. When selecting plants for your terrarium, remember that it needs to be suitable for the size of the glass container you use and it is preferable to choose a plant that thrives in humid conditions.

6. Once all your plants are inside your container, add small pebbles on top of the soil as a decorative feature.

7. Feel free to add miniature ornaments or little trinkets to your terrarium and make it your own.

Once you have completed your terrarium, you will need to take good care of it to ensure that it grows and flourishes. Place it in a spot that has a lot of bright light’ but is not directly in the sun and don’t forget to water your terrarium when you see that the soil is getting dry.