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How to Build a Moss Terrarium: A Step-by-Step Guide

June 17, 2024

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Welcome to Ordinary Object! Moss terrariums are a delightful way to bring a piece of nature into your home or workspace. Today, we’ll guide you through the process of building your very own moss terrarium using our all-inclusive kit. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a curious beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create a beautiful, low-maintenance piece of nature for your desk or home. Let’s get started on this green adventure!

How to Build a Moss Terrarium: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to create a beautiful moss terrarium with Ordinary Object's all-inclusive kit. Follow our detailed step-by-step guide to build a unique and low-maintenance piece of nature for your home or desk.

June 17, 2024

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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Our moss terrarium kit includes everything you need:

  • A container (choose from an acrylic box, jar, or can)
  • Instruction manual
  • Lava rock material bag
  • Sphagnum moss (dried) material bag
  • Akadama soil material bag
  • Cushion moss (live or preserved)
  • Tweezers
  • Spray bottle
  • Optional decorative object

Before you start, make sure your workspace is clean and you have all the materials ready. Having a small brush and some paper towels handy can be helpful for cleanup.

Step 2: Spread a Layer of Lava Rock

Start by spreading a layer of lava rock evenly on the bottom of your container. Aim for about an inch-thick layer. This layer provides essential drainage, preventing water from accumulating at the bottom and causing root rot. Lava rocks are excellent for this purpose because they are lightweight and porous, promoting good airflow.

Step 3: Add Sphagnum Moss

Next, add a thin layer of sphagnum moss on top of the lava rock. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing the soil from seeping into the drainage layer while retaining moisture. Spread the sphagnum moss evenly to cover the entire surface of the lava rocks. Press it down gently to create a compact layer.

Step 4: Add Akadama Soil

Cover the sphagnum moss with a layer of Akadama soil. This specialized soil, often used in bonsai gardening, is excellent for moisture control and aeration. Spread the soil evenly, aiming for a depth of about 1-2 inches. Spray water evenly on the soil to ensure it's moist but not waterlogged. Proper moisture is key to maintaining the health of your moss.

Step 5: Position the Cushion Moss

Using the tweezers, carefully position the cushion moss on top of the soil. Arrange the moss to create an appealing landscape. You can create small mounds or even patterns. Gently press the moss down to ensure it makes good contact with the soil. Give the moss a light spray with the spray bottle to keep it moist. If using live moss, ensure it stays consistently moist but not soaked. For preserved moss, maintain a slightly lower humidity level.

Step 6: Add Decorative Elements

Finally, place the optional object included in your kit on top of the moss. This could be a small figurine, a decorative stone, or any other tiny object that adds a personal touch to your terrarium. Arrange the object carefully to complement the natural layout of your moss. This step allows you to add a unique character and story to your terrarium, making it truly your own.

Maintenance Tips

  • Watering: Mist your terrarium lightly with water every few days. Ensure the environment stays humid but not overly wet. For live moss, maintain a high humidity level. For preserved moss, a slightly lower humidity is sufficient.
  • Light: Place your terrarium in a spot with indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can be too harsh and dry out the moss. A bright, shaded area is ideal.
  • General Care: Occasionally check your moss for any signs of dryness or mold. Adjust watering and light exposure as needed. If you notice mold, reduce watering and increase ventilation. For live moss, occasional trimming may be necessary to keep it healthy and lush.

We hope you enjoy creating and maintaining your moss terrarium. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #OrdinaryObjectTerrariums. We love seeing how each terrarium turns out uniquely beautiful!