Terrariums and Dish Gardens

That first terrarium in a fish tank served us so well that this winter I made a second terrarium, this one in the ex-abode of the recently demised hermit crab (said sorry crab being the one that came home at the end of the previous school year). The little clear plastic critter-sized box with handle and lid is perfect for a little terrarium. So now we have two.

I will not admit to looking forward to the changing of the guard in the aquatic frog's 20 gallon tank (yet another ex-classroom pet -- apparently these creatures can live as long as 20 years so far we are up to four years), but in time I believe the plants will probably provide a more visually attractive accent in my living room -- assuming I outlive the frog.

So here are my links:

Constructing and Maintaining a Dish Garden or Terrarium This page provides a general cursory introductory overview to terrarium and dish garden building; it includes a plant list.

MaJa's Rainforest Build A Terrarium This is the proverbial KISS version of the step-by-step instructions rendered particularly helpful by the wonderful and surprisingly cute diagrams. Although intended for children, I found it more than adequate for adults as well. After you have absorbed the information on this page, proceed to the next page described below because it will elaborate on some of the finer points of construction and maintenance.

Plants and Youth: Designing and Building A Terrarium. Classical, exquisite black and white photos show step-by-step how to create your terrarium. This straightforward and instructive page includes detailed how-to directions and a recommended plant list. This is a more in-depth treatment of how to make your terrarium and is suitable for both the beginner and the more serious hobbyist.

Last but not least by any means, check out my favorite write-up on terrariums, both open and closed as well as dish gardens. The page is by Ray R. Rothenberger and is simply called Terrariums. I think this page will provide you with all the information you could possibly need to get started and be successful with your new project right from the start. The plant list is extensive and descriptive enough to be useful in making your selections -- enough so that I would suggest printing it out and taking it to the nursery with you when you shop for your plants.

If you would like

Go To Page: 1 2 3