Terrariums

The general goal of this blog is to write about topics ranging from container gardening to green design to urban gardening. Its scope is wide. That being said, one specific goal that I do have is to show case some of my container plants or terrariums. So I will attempt to post about one product every couple of weeks. So without wasting more time here is the first terrarium I want to show.

Most of the containers I use are recycled. I get them from a nearby recycling depot. And although I sometimes get some stares its worth it. There are some stunning containers out there! I have purchased the cork lid from a provider in Observatory, Cape Town and the label is stamped on hand cut carton by a stamp made with the assistance of a local stationary shop. This specific terrarium contains different layers of gravel, sphagnum, sand, charcoal and peat. I will get into the details of producing terrariums at home in another blog - actually there are many articles out on the web, just go get your browse on. I get distracted: the most important aspect of this post is the moss. I have only been able to find two mosses that seem to work well in my closed terrariums. One is a Pleurocarpus moss and the other Acrocarpus. The one in this container is an Pleurocarpus moss. There are also many articles related to this topic. Here's an article from Mossandstonegarden.com that I like. This moss is a fast growing moss and can handle very moist conditions. I prefer the slower growing mosses as it keeps its initial feel and appearance. In contrast this little moss patch inside comes alive and tries to grow quite wild, especially if there is a lot of moisture. It does work well in these closed terrariums and seems to be comfortable with the microclimate. Let me know what you think!