Garden in a jar; an easy terrarium.

I have always loved terrariums.  I received my first terrarium in the 70's.  It was reminiscent of a spaceship; two plastic pieces that fit together and created a sphere.  It hung in a fabulous macrame hanger....remember macrame?  I had that well-loved terrarium until several years ago.  The plastic had yellowed and the hanger was long gone.  It was time to move on!

Terrariums are a simple way to bring some greenery into your home.  If you live in an apartment or in the city and you don't have a garden; it allows you to enjoy gardening on a very small scale.  Just follow these simple steps!

This is a favorite that I made last year.  I found the jar at a tag sale; love the "pear" shape!

This one is several years old.  I wanted you to see the unique glass bird on top of the cover.  It was made at a class that I took with Tova Martin; a garden and terrarium expert!

Begin by finding a jar.  It can be any shape or size and ideally should have a lid.  You can use plastic wrap over the top if you need to.  You can purchase a jar or container at a store that sells home goods or you can search for a unique one in an antique store.  Wash the jar thoroughly before using.  You will also need a bag of potting soil.

Purchase several plants that you know will fit into the jar.  You can find plants at your local florist or garden center.  Take the jar with you so you have a better idea of what plants to buy.

I recommend that you purchase charcoal.  If your garden center doesn't carry it, you can find it at any store carrying aquarium supplies.  The filtering quality of the charcoal will help keep the terrarium "clean".

You'll need to mix a small amount of charcoal with your potting soil depending on the size of the jar.  I used three tablespoons of charcoal for this jar.  Once you've mixed the charcoal in, add more potting soil.  Tap the bottom of the pot your plant is in and carefully tip it upside down in order to get the plant out.  If the plant is root bound (roots coming out of bottom of pot and plant stuck to pot), break up the roots a bit before planting in the terrarium.

Add additional plants one at a time being careful not to pack them too closely together.

Add extra dirt if needed.

Water your new terrarium without soaking it!  Put the lid on and you've created a small garden in a jar.  You shouldn't need to water too often as the terrarium will sustain itself.  Place in a sunny spot but avoid direct sunlight. 

The plants should thrive in this environment with very little care.

Terrariums make great gifts!