How to Grow Moss in a Terrarium

The popularity of moss terrariums has been increasing lately. I have actually seen quite a lot of terrariums in shops on www.etsy.com. But why not make your own? It’s not only easy, but also a lot of fun. The thing I like most about moss terrariums is their whimsical feel and the way they make me think about all the good summers I have had in the past that were surrounded by moss, particularly camping, hiking and reading outside. If you can have moss inside during the winter, you can keep those memories alive all year round.

When I encounter the word 'moss' I immediately think of being in the woods in the summer. Moss tends to grow near the water, in the forests, or near rocks, in damp places or in shade.

Because moisture is incredibly important for the life of moss, it is being made in terrariums instead of open pots. For it to thrive, we must trap the moisture and humidity in.

The first step in creating this kind of terrarium is to get a container for it that you really like. Some kind of pretty jar would work really well, but it needs to have a big opening, and a cover. The glass jars used for storing food (for baking: flour, sugar, etc) and spices are perfect.

Take your time and search for a jar you really like. A lot of good places to look for neat jars are flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores. Wash it well before you begin your terrarium making journey.

The next step is to add a layer on the bottom of the jar of something that moss would like to grow on. Pebbles or rocks are perfect for this, but I’ve also seen wine corks used and I think that is a really neat idea.

The third step is to put a bit of soil over the rocks or corks. Moss actually doesn’t need that much soil to survive, and it doesn’t like nutrient rich soil. You can actually mix your potting soil with a bit of sand to help this problem.

Now you get to put your moss in and arrange it the way you want it. Once you’re settled on your idea, press it down firmly.

The fifth step is to add whatever other things you want in your terrarium. I’ve seen people add Micro-miniature Sinningias, which are the world’s smallest flowering houseplant. I’ve also seen people use little figurines, especially fake mushrooms. I also think neat looking stones and seashells are a good idea to add. Any way you want it to look is up to you. This is where you can be as creative and adventurous as you want with your terrarium.

The last step is to put the terrarium in bright, but indirect sunlight, and mist it with water every day. You want to keep it moist at all times, with no actual standing water.

Now you see how easy it is to do it on your own. It's a good project, even for kids to help with! Some places even sell DIY kits to make the process even easier.

Moss is easier to care for than houseplants