Seeing plants grow, but not doing anything for it. Sounds perfect? Then continue reading! It is common knowledge that plants fall into a kind of hibernation from autumn onwards. Less sunlight means that a plant has less food. As a result, they grow less and often turn brown. Not exactly desirable!
In addition, there is one major problem with plants in autumn: root rot.
You are often used to the frequency with which you water your plants. No problem, but then it is important to actually water less from autumn onwards. Don’t you do this? Then a plant can’t absorb the water. This causes the water to wander around the roots, eventually causing them to rot.
Conclusion? Plants are a bit less fun from autumn onwards. At least, if we’re talking about houseplants. Plants in ecosystems fall into a different category. They do grow despite the cold weather. Extra fun! But what exactly is a terrarium?
Types of terrariums
Put simply, a terrarium is an (often) enclosed environment in which nature itself takes its course. In the interior world there are two types of terrariums:
- A closed terrarium
- An open terrarium
A closed terrarium
For plant lovers without green fingers, we recommend a closed terrarium to complement your interior. You don’t have to worry about it. At least, if you keep the glass clean, of course.
Tropical plants have been added to a closed terrarium. These plants prefer to live in an environment with high humidity. In terms of sunlight, tropical plants also have few requirements. They don’t like direct sunlight, but when they get some light they are soon satisfied.
Next to the small plants a little bit of water has been added. With a little bit we mean really little. Three small syringes with a plant sprayer are enough.
As soon as the lid or cap goes on the glass jar, you won’t have to worry about it anymore. The little bit of water will condense by itself, which in turn is food for the plants. This moisture will be expelled by itself. Because of this the little bit of water in the closed environment will be used again. Ideal!
An open terrarium
Despite the fact that an ecosystem regulates itself, this is not entirely the case with an open terrarium. Water is needed, but in such small quantities that you don’t even realize it.
An open terrarium usually contains succulents and cacti. These plants store water in their roots, leaves and the rest of their plant. In this way they can support themselves for a longer period of time.
Put the succulents and cacti together in a sandy potting soil. It is best to place them in a spot with enough sunlight, but partial shade is also fine. The requirements of these plants are so minimal that you don’t have to do much for them. The plants take care of it themselves. The only thing they ask for is a little bit of water every now and then.
