Comments on: Terrarium rehab

By: Priscilla

Priscilla — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 16:04:59 +0000

I love these terrariums. I think I will be trying to make one when I get back home. Never have tried one. Is there a website that has basic information on how to start one and plants to use. Very interesting how these need a perfect balance. Priscilla, There are lots of websites and entire books on how to make a terrarium (My post from last October has a quick step-by-step and materials list.) There are lots of perfect plants - it depends a bit on the size of your container. Anything that likes a humid environment and doesn't need full-full sun is a good bet - ferns, some begonias, creeping figs ... Good luck and have fun making it! -kris

By: Cris Larson

Cris Larson — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 16:04:35 +0000

You know, I just came from Garden Web’s Terrarium forum. Low and behold, I come here and see this new terrarium posting. I have been toying with the idea of turning two abandoned aquariums of ours into terrariums. I’m thinking I just may have to just do it!

Hi Cris! – I’m very glad to see you here! I fully support your desire to plant those aquariums – it’s a perfect winter endeavor for a garden designer (keeps your hand in, so to speak). -kris

By: Digital Flower

Digital Flower — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 12:15:19 +0000

Thanks for bringing back some memories. I used to build them with my dad. We actually won a couple of blue ribbons at the Philadelphia Flower Show.

Your terrariums must have been extra beautiful – do you have any pictures of them to post? -kris

By: Layanee

Layanee — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:48:11 +0000

I used to have a rather large terrarium. They were very popular in the 70′s. I also find them fascinating and will have to consider them once again. I think I will have a ‘Wardian Case’ as that sounds so much more mysterious don’t you think? A rose by any other name….LOL

Layanee, I think “Wardian Case” has a much more elegant ring but it’ll have to be one of those ornate mini greenhouses and probably not a mason jar to ring true! -kris

By: Susan Sims

Susan Sims — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:31:36 +0000

Hmm…terrariums. I haven’t ever tried them as in my mind, they still carry too much baggage from the 70s. Terrariums conjure slimy aquariums lurking by the window, macrame hanging planters, and pet rocks. I dunno…there’s some ferns that tempt me into trying it as any fern will wither and die in the 0% humidity of my house in the winter time. Maybe if I found a really elegant container for them. Still…

Susan, It’s time to let go of that baggage! Think of all of the other things that have been revived with updates – clogs, bellbottoms (a.k.a bootcut jeans), orange… And your ferns (plus some begonias) will be so much happier. Plus there are all sorts of elegant containers on the market now (even potterybarn has some) and if you cruise flea markets you might be lucky enough to find a cool old apothecary jar like mine. -kris