Yes, it may be cold outside, but we shall survive winter and not let our green thumbs get moldy. Can I get an amen?

Winter is the perfect time to tend to your house plants, divide/transplant those babies springing up in your pots, and create a terrarium. If you don’t have any houseplants (what!?), go buy some as soon as possible. Plants add life to our homes and help us ward off the winter doldrums. Plus there’s that whole oxygen thing. Good stuff.

Local nurseries sell tiny terrarium plants, but you can also buy them on-line. (Search ‘terrarium plants’ and see what you find.)

I’ve always wanted to make a terrarium, especially one in a glass cloche. I’ve been keeping my eyes open for these domed shaped beauties whenever I go to flea markets or antique stores, but they are impossible to find. Or, super expensive.

I finally bought one a few years ago. (They come in different sizes—mine is 7″ by 8.5″). If you need one, I noticed a small one sold by Crate and Barrel for $10.95.

Making a terrarium is not rocket science, but there are steps to follow and basic ingredients needed. If you don’t already have the things you will need in your potting shed / garage / wherever, head over to your local gardening center. I promise, they will be thrilled to see you, (especially this time of year), and more than happy to help you gather these ingredients.

1. River Rock
2. Charcoal
3. Potting Soil
4. Moss

Step One: Place a smooth layer of river rock on the bottom of tray or container to act as a drain field for excess water.

Step Two: Cover rock evenly with carbonized charcoal. Charcoal purifies excess water and prevents mold and fungus from growing (since there are no drainage holes).

Step Three: Add potting soil over the charcoal layer, 2 to 3 inches for planting. This was a bit tricky with a dome cover. I left a trench around the edge for the lid.

Step Four: Plant! Dig a hole with your finger and place plant into it. These are small 2″ plants. Not much digging required.

Step Five: Place sheet moss in water and get it moist. Cover soil with moss. Add decorations if you like. (Shells, marbles, etc.)

Step Six: Mist with water. Cover. Watch grow.

 

Keep out of direct sunlight. You may need to uncover occasionally and add a spoonful of water. I’m hoping that eventually mine will take care of itself, but I haven’t had it long enough to know yet. In the month or so I’ve had it, I’ve only watered it a couple of times.

This would make a wonderful gift too.

Now, on to a few other ways to spiff up your indoor gardening and ultimately survive the long cold winter.

Place a glass bell cloche over a single plant to make it a focal point. This also reduces watering and provides heat. A mini greenhouse. I love this look.

Add small plants to vintage planters. I have a collection, many from my mother in law. Sentimental, kitschy and fun.

For something different, plant a tiny something in an unusual container. This miniature ficus is zen-ish. Anything that creates calmness can be a lifesaver when cabin fever sets in.

Creating these little green spots in my home helps satisfy my gardening itch during winter. Spring will be here soon. Stay warm friends!

Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.

“Snow falling soundlessly in the middle of the night will always fill my heart with sweet clarity.” ― Novala Takemoto