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Terrariums: Part 1
Getting Started

Once again, Terrariums are a terrific method of Container Gardening.

One can find much enjoyment in watching many types of plants thrive in this miniature ecosystem. With only a few key factors to keep in mind, you'll find this "portable project" a delight to maintain.

Don't worry or fret about it being a difficult process. We'll walk through the methods together, and find the right way to go.

Temperature and humidity are key factors in success, as well as watering and fertilizing. Oh yes,....location, location, location. This old saying for real estate sure goes hand in hand with gardening as well.

As far as styles, I've seen many types and configurations. Everything from a simple four-walled glass structure, to one that resembles more of a majestic castle.

This is something you'll definitely have to decide on your own.But with these visual aides, I think the whole process will be made much more simpler.

Here in these container garden videos, you'll find out how to select the proper container for your needs. See what to look for, and what to skip over when shopping.

Getting Started Videos

Container:

Up first, we all know the many different styles and shapes of containers to choose from. It all boils down to knowing your space available, what plants you want to grow, and basically, your vision of your garden.

Click ONCE the small arrow at the bottom-left-corner of the screen (not the arrow in the middle of the screen) to watch this video.

Container Gardening Tip:

When shopping, don't forget to bring a list of things you'll want to include as additions. For example, heaters and lighting equipment(anything with cords).

That could definitely change your outlook on what you'll buy to build a Terrarium. Some models even come with avenues of concealing wiring.

Background:

Here's where we'll see how to choose a background. Often times, backgrounds may come with your purchase, but if not they should be available where your purchase will be made.

The two types and styles discussed here are: Natural Cork and Styrofoam.

Both are very exceptable, however, there are some disadvantages to either.

Reminder

By using wire, Styrofoam allows one to hold up plants stems or other materials to the back of the Styrofoam!

Cork Bark is a natural material. Therefore degredation will occur over time. With the presence of moisture (or maybe a lot of moisture) the cork could possibly fail quickly. However, it has a wonderful natural look, which could be enough to warrant a replacement every so often.

As said before, some units will come with a backgound already. Those most likely will be Styrofoam. Not as natural looking as the cork, but Styrofoam will never degrade.

Click ONCE the small arrow at the bottom-left-corner of the screen (not the arrow in the middle of the screen) to watch this video.

Container Gardening Tip

Feelin' lucky?

Make your own Styrofaom background! Practice on a small piece first. Carve out a "natural look" to the Styrofoam using a metal grinder or some other tool that will cut through the Styrofoam to form the grooves. After the look is achieved, paint with a watered-down earthy brown color (or one to your liking). Add other detailing as you desire!

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