Creating a Terrarium: Gardening in the winter

As the year rolls into November, the cold weather and snow come with it which means  gardening takes a hiatus. But it doesn’t have to. Not only can you keep your green thumb in the  winter, but also fresh oxygen and added décor are great bonuses from creating a terrarium. 

I remember creating terrariums in school during science class, not knowing it would be  something I’d utilize as an adult. Terrariums are simple enough for school children to create and  maintain, which is great because it means they aren’t high maintenance. 

You’ll need a container, potting soil, gloves, a trowel, sheet moss, a watering can, terrarium  plants and potting charcoal.  

Layer 2 inches of potting soil on the bottom of the container. Mix the remaining potting charcoal  in with the potting soil and fill the container ⅓ - ¼ full with the mixture. While filling the container,  pack the mixture down every few inches to avoid pockets of air in the soil. Place your terrarium  plants on top of the mixture, leaving enough room in between the plants to allow for more soil.  Gently pack the soil around the plants, fully covering the roots. Cover the soil in between the  plants with the moss. Finally, water the plants before placing them in a well-lit spot. 

Some common terrarium plants include Baby’s Tears, African Violet, Creeping Fig, Friendship  Plant, Watermelon Peperomia and more.  

Get creative with the container. You could use a traditional container… or you could use an old  hanging glass lamp, a mason jar, a fancy candy jar or a teacup. 

Terrariums and the idea of a small, contained garden translate into the other seasons as well.  Repurpose birdbaths or birdhouses to create smaller gardens within your overall garden or bring  these objects into your home for an indoor garden.