Garden Jars for Beginners

And although at first you may think that creating a miniature garden can result a difficult task, do not be fooled by appearances. With a little creativity and patience you can create a stunning masterpiece. Detailed instructions on how to make a garden in a jar can be found below. Let's get to work!

The container you choose must be deep enough to easily place individual items in it. For this type of task, in addition to a large jar, will be suitable, among others: a fish bawl, vase, large wine glasses, or glass bottles.

A word of caution: if the container was previously used for other purposes, clean it thoroughly just before placing the plants in it.

Almost any type of plant can be placed in your jar. However, it is best to choose plants with similar characteristics. Among others, miniature ferns, moss, succulents and cacti are ideal.

This group includes: Tartary, Araucaria (medium size), Royal Begonia (small-leaved variety), Hypoestes, Dracaena Sandera, Calathea, Saxifraga, Cryptoclover, Croton, Marantha, small size Ferns, Pellionia, Peperomia, Pilea, Small-leaved Ivy, Mexican Reo, Forked, Scion (medium height), Violets, Creeping Ficus, Fittonia, Episcia.

Everything you will need to prepare a phenomenal fish bawl garden can be found at a garden store:

• Potting soil - choose a light soil with plenty of drainage, preferably with an admixture of peat.
• Pebbles or gravel - these elements will provide good drainage at the bottom of the fish bawl. What is more, they will add beauty to your garden.
• Activated carbon - if you are using a container without drainage holes, add a small layer of carbon to the bottom of the container.
• Moss - a sheet at the bottom of the container will act as a sponge to collect excess water.
• Planting tools, gloves, watering can
• Decorations - you can choose any decorations you like, such as miniature garden gnomes, shells, stones, small sculptures, or decorations used in an aquarium.

• Clean the glass container.
• Add some drainage mix. Gravel and pebbles with a good handful of activated carbon. Spread a layer of the mixture (about 1/2 an inch thick) on the bottom of the container.
• Add a layer of moss.
• Prepare the soil. Depending on the size of the terrarium and the length of the plant roots, add about 2 inch of soil. Gently fluff the soil to remove air bubbles and obtain a smooth surface. Make small holes in which you can place the plants you bought.
• Plant the plants. Take the plants out of the container, remove any excess soil from their roots, and place them in the holes you just made. Then lightly firm the soil around the plants. Do this with each planting.
• Add decorations.
• Give your plants some moisture. Gently water your new garden.

• Water the plants. If the terrarium is open, water the plants occasionally. Although airtight terrariums do not require watering plants, open containers need to be watered at least once a week. Succulents and cacti can be watered once a month.
• Take care of your plants. As soon as you notice weeds, mold or diseased plants, remove them immediately.
• Let in some fresh air. If the terrarium is airtight, ventilate it from time to time.

And that's it! Now you know what to do to create your own fish bawl garden! Once you've done that, you need to send us photos! We look forward to seeing them. Good luck!