What kid doesn't long for an alternate reality, an escape from the realm of homework and piano practice? It could be a wardrobe that leads to a forest, or a land at the end of a rainbow. Or it could be a tiny, glass-enclosed universe. Filled with plants and toy creatures, a terrarium can open a door to another world (while offering kids a mini lesson in ecology).
1. PREP
Lay out your ingredients on newspaper: potting soil, horticultural charcoal from a nursery (which keeps stagnant water from stinking), a top layer (sheet moss for a moist terrarium, sand or pebbles for an arid one), a container, plants, and decorations.
2. LAYER
Spread a layer of charcoal in the bottom of the container (about ¼ inch deep for a small vessel, ½ inch deep for a large one). Top with a layer of potting soil (from ½ inch deep for shallow-rooted plants to 2 inches deep for larger plants). If you're making a mossy terrarium, put down a layer of sheet moss, folding and gathering it to create little hills and dales.
3. PLANT
Remove the plants from their pots and dig them into the soil. For moist containers, pierce the moss with your hand and place the plants inside. For dry ones, plant into the soil, then cover the surface with sand, pebbles, or both.
4. DECORATE AND IRRIGATE
Add toys, rocks, and such, then pour a cup or so of water over the top. If there's standing liquid after a few hours, just water less next time.
5. ENJOY
Your plants will need to be cut back or replaced eventually, but with the right care (about a cup of water once a month) and in the right light (bright but filtered), they'll be part of your children's indoor playground for years to come.
