Since a child, I’ve always loved terrariums.

For me, there’s just something about a terrarium that fascinates me. The idea of a miniature biodome, or miniature anything in childhood, caught my attention. I think it might have been about the exclusivity of things that only children could use or access, since so much of the world had been geared to adult utility. I liked having things sized to me, especially as I was the youngest of six kids.

If set up correctly, a terrarium doesn’t need much watering, just a misting from time to time as required. So, that seemed pretty foolproof, and I didn’t have much luck with gardening until I grew up. I can recommend terrariums for those lacking green thumbs.

An open-topped terrarium.

Certainly, there are other things to consider when setting up a terrarium. Be care to avoid too much light or water, as that could throw off the ecosystem. Mold or mildew could grow as a result, with blight or rot deteriorating the roots. A terrarium instead requires almost a benign neglect if fully closed off. Open-topped ones need more humidity or misting.

Small cloche terrarium in the coal room.

Given its self-sufficiency, terrariums provide a great entry point for novice gardeners. There’s something reassuring in seeing organic, verdant life thriving indoors. As an introvert, I find great appeal in looking at plants when relaxing, just as I would feel watching fish in a fish tank. But I’d rather not trap fish, so plants can be a great substitute.

More plant accents at the farm.

Different tins and glass shapes for planters, for when you up your plant game.

Bringing plants inside invites nature into the home, a reminder of the woods, fields, or mossy hollows. One thing I’ve learned is that plants, like most if not all living things, have a finite lifespan. Odd things can cause a plant to suddenly wither & fade. So it’s important to make sure indoor plants receive bright but inditect light, & don’t overwater which is a common occurrence.

But even if you do lose plants, try again. Read up. Use trial & error. Start small. You can start with one and see how it goes.

Personally, I tend to think a terrarium is a perfect interior or private space accent for introverts, since we love nature but also love home environments. A bit of garden therapy can carry those of us with winters through the snowy months, with a reminder of the greener months to come, once again.

An air plant, like the ones found on trees in the Bahamas.

An open dish or container garden.