A Terrarium
• 02 November 2011
It's no secret on this blog that over the years I've struggled with developing a green thumb. I'm still on the fence if this is even possible! Anyway, I've found that making a terrarium is a fun way to practice, as you're essentially creating your own little microclimate :) This recent creation, a desert-themed terrarium, is just about the easiest thing to maintain (because it needs so little water so who cares if you forget to water!) and I encourage anyone wanting to infuse more "life" into their space to make one.
Here's how you do it:
1. Find an open top glass vessel of some sort. Mine was found at a local flower store (these could work too if you want an online source).
2. Fill it 1/3 (ish) the way up with pretty sand. Use your eye to judge.
3. Add a few craspedia balls, a succulent, an air plant (really cool plants that sit atop the sand basically), and a tiny piece of chartreuse reindeer moss. Et voila! You have a terrarium at hand, and one that's incredibly easy to keep alive too.
You can also find craspedia at a local florist (call first though, they aren't very common); and the remaining 3 components at your local nursery (i.e. Swansons in Seattle). Let me know if you have any questions about sourcing or technique!
image by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo
Interesting...I've seen Terrariums (had no idea what they are called) in homes and had no idea how simple they were. I'll have to make one! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteOhmigoodness! This is charming! How adorable!
ReplyDeleteI am in LOVE with Terrariums. I have one sitting next to me now, actually. I love the one you pictured...so pretty. You're inspiring to make my own. mmm...they would make a lovely Christmas gift.
ReplyDeleteI think yours is fantastic! I gave up a dozen huge patio pots of succulents in our move from So Cal to the Pacific Northwest, but am LOVING your terrarium version. Swansons here I come....
ReplyDeleteDan! I love that a male reader is piping up...thanks!
ReplyDeleteDionne, thanks for the sweet comment :)
Mara, I forgot to mention that I've already ordered craspedia (billy buttons) in bulk for terrariums I plan to make as Christmas gifts. We are on the same page!
Kira, I bought my air plant and succulent at The Palm Room on Ballard Ave NW--same street as D'Ambrosio Gelato and Horseshoe. I'd stop there first and then maybe hit Swansons if you're looking for more of a "mom and pop" type shop. I should've put that into the post. Oh and welcome to Seattle! We've been here one year now.
I've been trying to figure out what those sweet little balls of yellow are for some time - thank you!! Love.
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