Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will learn how to create and care for your own terrarium.

Materials and Prep

• A clear glass container with a lid (such as a mason jar or fish tank)
• Small rocks or pebbles
• Potting soil
• Small plants (such as succulents or ferns)
• Moss or small decorative items (optional)
• A spray bottle filled with water
• A spoon or small shovel
• A small watering can or cup

Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the plants.

Activities

1. Start by placing a layer of small rocks or pebbles at the bottom of your glass container. This will help with drainage.

2. Add a layer of potting soil on top of the rocks. Make sure it's deep enough for the roots of your plants to grow.

3. Carefully remove your plants from their containers and gently loosen the roots. Place them on top of the soil in your container.

4. If desired, add some moss or small decorative items to make your terrarium more visually appealing.

5. Spray the plants and soil with water using the spray bottle. Be careful not to overwater.

6. Place the lid on your terrarium to create a mini greenhouse effect. This will help keep the moisture in.

7. Keep your terrarium in a location with indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as it may get too hot.

8. Check the moisture level of the soil regularly and water as needed. Use a small watering can or cup to avoid overwatering.

Talking Points

• "A terrarium is like a little garden inside a glass container."

• "Terrariums are a great way to learn about plants and how they grow."

• "The rocks at the bottom of the terrarium help with drainage, so the plants don't get too much water."

• "The potting soil provides nutrients for the plants to grow."

• "Plants need water to survive, but we have to be careful not to overwater them."

• "The lid on the terrarium acts like a mini greenhouse and helps keep the moisture in."

• "Placing the terrarium in a location with indirect sunlight is important because direct sunlight can make it too hot."

• "We need to check the soil regularly to see if it needs more water."