What is a Terrarium?
A terrarium is a vessel that holds an ecosystem of plants which sustain their own water cycle through means of evaporation, transpiration and condensation.
Terrariums are most useful for small plants and mosses which otherwise would not adapt well to home environments. When properly cared for, terrariums provide a novel way to grow and display your miniature plant species.
The closed system keeps water and humidity at a consistent level. Condensation on the sides of the glass is completely normal and an essential part of maintaining the ecosystem.
The first terrarium came about when Dr. Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward discovered ferns growing in his moth pupa sealed glass environments. Ward noticed mosses and ferns thriving, and went on to coin the term Wardian Case: a greenhouse-like structure, which are often used as terrariums.
Since then, terrariums were popularised in the rare plant trade, offering a safer humid environment in transporting plants across the world.
The evolution of terrariums in modern times shows a marriage of nature and art – allowing for a display of refinery with a natural touch.
Terrariums offer a low maintenance way of looking after plants and mossses alike, but some care is still necessaary
Basic Terrarium Care includes
- Ensuring your terrarium is placed in optimal lighting
- Keeping the glass clean to keep algae and fungus at bay
- Pruning and plant maintenance to encourage growth
- Remove any dead foliage to avoid molt/rot
