GARDENING FEB 2024.qxp_Layout 1 19/01/2024 16:45 Page 1
GARDENING
Bottle it up
Elly West lets her imagination run riot as she explores the fascinating world of terrariums – terrain where horticultural lovers of all levels can create their own miniature ecosystems, from tropical jungles to Japanese-style gardens
H
ouseplants have had a resurgence in popularity in recent years, possibly helped by Instagram, but also well-deserved as we become more conscious of the health benefits of being in touch with the natural world. My memories of houseplants from childhood are largely dusty spider plants and shrivelled cacti, but a contemporary houseplant display can be so much more with a bit of careful planning. Terrariums are also enjoying a revived popularity, and as I currently have a pet fish that appears to be on its last legs (so to speak), I’ve been wondering how to repurpose the tank when he floats off to the giant fish bowl in the sky. A bit of research and I’m hooked. There are so many ideas and inspirational images online, from small jars with simple mosses and miniature ferns, to larger landscapes simulating tropical forests, Japanese-style gardens, hills and mountains. Imagination is allowed to run riot. Rocks, gnarly driftwood, and a multitude of ornaments join the plants for more (and less) realistic displays that include fairy gardens, Some terrariums are self-watering
alien habitats, and Hobbit-style landscapes complete with pathways, steps, houses and fake streams.
Where science meets art The combination of horticulture, science, creativity and artistry is appealing, and the result can be a beautiful focal point for a room, or a fun project for younger family members. These miniature ecosystems are low-maintenance and largely self-sustaining, so ideal for the less green-fingered among us. Although terrariums are back in the spotlight, the concept dates back to the mid-19th century, when south London botanist Dr Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward accidentally dropped a fern seed inside a jar where he was keeping a sphinx moth. This was an era of botany, natural history and plant collecting. Ferns were a popular fascination in Victorian times, coining the term ‘Pteridomania’ (or ‘fern fever’), and Bagshaw Ward had a collection in his garden. However, the polluted London air of a postindustrial world meant many would fail to thrive. Over time the little fern seed grew into a healthy plant in this toxin-free, humid environment, which sparked the idea to grow other humidity-loving plants in a contained space. His illustrated book On the Growth of Plants in Closely Glazed Cases followed, as did his invention of the ‘Wardian Case’, which meant plants could be transported on ships around the world, protected from the harshness of life at sea and the salty air. This was revolutionary in bringing exotic plants to the UK from far-flung locations, thanks to his ideas. Terrariums are not just ornamental displays, they add a natural element to our indoor space and can be beneficial to our wellbeing. They integrate easily into contemporary lifestyles and fit into most design schemes, with a multitude of different shapes and sizes available. They’re ideal for people living in cities without much outdoor space, and are a convenient and low-maintenance alternative to traditional gardening. As a self-contained ecosystem, condensation ensures that moisture is recycled, so minimal watering and attention is necessary.
Make your own terrarium You can make your own terrarium in just about any clear glass container with an opening large enough to get your hand in, such as a pasta jar, fish bowl or tank, or even a large jam jar. Tropical foliage plants will need a lid, which should be removed once a month or so to allow some condensation to escape. Desert-style succulents and cacti should be grown in a container with an open top. Make sure your plants have similar light and moisture requirements. Ferns and mosses go well together, for example, or succulents and air plants. In the bottom of your container, place a layer of gravel or small pebbles for drainage, followed by a layer of activated charcoal. This is available from garden centres or online, and helps to prevent bacterial growth and odours. This should be topped with a layer of compost, deep enough to cover your plants’ roots. Arrange your plants and firm the 74 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2024 | No 231