I was at a yard sale and found an old issue of Martha Stewart Living with an article on terrariums.  I quickly thought, I must have one of these in my place.  I immediately went to my favorite discount home store and bought a perfectly simple fishbowl like vase for $9.99.  Then I went to my local Hardware Store and picked up all the supplies I needed to create my masterpiece.  A little bit of charcoal, stone, moss, mini plants and Voil! An instant living centerpiece for my dining room table.  At the moment I am scheming where I can put another one in my home.  I havent figured it out yet, oh wait.. yes, I have it! A new terrarium would look smashing on my desk.
Its oh so simple. Heres how.
 
This is what youll need to buy.
 
A glass container for your terrarium
A bag of small pebbles or stones
A bag of activated charcoal
Spanish moss
Potting soil
Small plants or succulents
 
This is what youll need to do.
 
1. Clean the terrarium container with a mild soapy water and rinse it thoroughly to remove any soap residue
 
2. Place a thin layer of pebbles or small stones in the bottom of the terrarium (this helps with drainage and water management)
 
3. Place a thin layer of activated charcoal over the pebbles - If you are making a closed environment terrarium you should do this step. The charcoal will keep the water clean. If you are making an open terrarium you can skip this step.
 
4. Place a thin layer of Spanish moss on top of charcoal or pebbles. This will act as a bedding material that will keep separation between the soil and the pebbles. Without this moss the soil will settle down into the pebbles and get muddy.
 
5. Place a thick layer of your potting soil on top.
 
6. Plant your plants into the soil.
 
7. Place all your extra materials and create your theme - this can make your terrarium even more attractive.
 
This is how you care for your Terrarium:
 
Caring for your terrarium is easy. Check every couple of weeks to see if your terrarium needs water. Feel the soil to see if it is dry and add water if it is.
If your terrarium is closed, take off the top at least once a month to air it out. If you see lots of condensation or have added too much water, leave the top off until it has had a chance to dry out.
Pull off any leaves that show signs of yellowing or damage and prune plants if they grow too large.
Dont fertilize your terrarium because you dont want to encourage growth.
 
Enjoy