Moss Terrarium Tutorial

I've been busy this weekend making some moss terrariums for Easter gifts. I'm starting to get into gardening mode due to the great weather we had. These terrariums couldn't be easier to make and care for and they couldn't be prettier sitting on your desk, coffee table or kitchen window sill.


To start, you need to find a glass container with a lid. You can also use containers without lids, but you have to make sure they stay moist.



You will also need some small rocks for the bottom layer, some sphagnum moss for the second layer, some cactus potting mix for the third layer and some bonsai soil for the fourth layer. You don't have to have the bonsai soil, but I find that the different colors of the layers add interest to the terrarium. You could substitute sand for the third layer and use the cactus potting mix or bonsai soil for the fourth layer. It is not recommended that you use regular potting mix as it tends to hold too much water.



Be sure to wash your rocks. Place a small layer of rock in the bottom of a clean dry glass container.



Next, put your sphagnum moss into a bowl and dampen it with water. Squeeze out the excess water and place a layer over the rocks. I use about a 1/2" thick layer. This will help to keep the soil from sifting down onto your rocks.




The third layer is your cactus potting mix. You will want to use about a 1/2" to 1" layer.



The fourth layer is the bonsai soil. This is a pretty terra cotta and sand colored mix.



The search for the moss is the most fun part of this project. Especially if you like to walk through the woods as I do. I found my moss in my back yard on the edge of our woods. You will want to have a container and a spatula or large flat spoon with you. Most moss will lift very easily from it's location. You don't want much soil to come up with it, so just put the spoon at the edge and slide it under the moss. It will be the final layer to your terrarium.



Lay your moss out on a newspaper and take the lid of your container to determine the size you will need. Trim the moss to fit the container and place it on top of the bonsai soil.



Now you will want to water it lightly. Don't allow too much water to sit on the bottom. If condensation collects on the inside of your terrarium, you can just remove the lid for 15 minutes or so. You know it's time to water your terrarium when you no longer see condensation on the inside.

You can add a little rock or ornament to the moss for decoration. There are several Etsy shops that sell terrarium treasures, or you can make your own out of polymer clay. Just use the word terrarium in your search. Most popular items are mushrooms, gnomes and little houses.

Aren't these lovely?