Terrarium time

 I have been seeing terrariums all over the place lately, so even though I don't have the greenest thumb I thought I would give it a try. I researched a bit and found that there is not really a right or wrong way to make one. Basically you will need a container, soil, small plants, and rocks and sand are optional. It is also a good idea to use perlite soil which helps with drainage. I had my eye out for glass containers for awhile and then yesterday after breakfast, I popped into one of our local thrift stores and I found three that were perfect. I paid $5 for all three. Score! Please excuse the pictures, it's a messy job so I worked in the garage on a folding table.

Here are the plants I bought, I got them at Lowes Garden Center, they were around $3 to $5 a piece. You want smaller plants so they will fit in your containers and have room to grow. You can also break up bigger plants into a few smaller plants or trim some of the larger leaves. Also you want to be conscious of where you will be putting the terrarium so you can pick plants according to the amount of sunlight you plan to give them. Three of the plants below need full sunlight and are of the cactus family the other two need medium to low sunlight. I also incorporated a mini succulent garden not pictured.

Here are the other ingredients I used, I also bought a big bag, 10 lbs I think, of river rock it was $4, they had smaller designer type bags that cost the same or more for much less. Just need to wash off the rock a bit before using.

                                 

Now you need to layer your materials, I started with the rock, then soil, then perlite, then soil. Be very careful when you put the rock in, the glass is delicate. Depending on what you plant and the size of your container you can do several layers for aesthetic.

The big one above I decided to do a desert theme with the cactus and some succulents. I dug holes for each of the plants and moved them in. I used the cactus potting mix for this one.

I added a layer of beach sand on top and was careful not to cover over the plants. Then placed some rocks around. To clean the glass up, try wrapping a paper towel around a paint stirrer and wiping around on the inside or you can just use your hand if you won't disturb the plants. I watered it pretty good and placed it where it will get the desired amount of light. Hopefully it will live and thrive. Looks pretty now! Here are the rest that I made...below is the one that won't need a lot of sunlight

 This is another desert one:

I did not expect to make this many but I wanted to use all the plants I bought. Here is the whole happy family...

I'll update if any don't make it. Keep your green fingers crossed!