biophilic design · closed glass terrariums
Building Forests in a Jar: My Experience with Closed Glass Terrariums
Diana shares her journey of building closed glass terrariums. Join her exploration into creating 'forests-in-a-jar' as part of embracing slow living.
As I sit in the soft morning light of my small Midwest home, my spaniel gently resting his head on my foot, I'm reminded why I began collecting moss and building terrariums in the first place. It's a practice rooted deeply in my love for slow living, a connection to nature that doesn't rush but instead allows for the quiet growth of tiny ecosystems — my 'forests in a jar.' The tranquility these terrariums bring to my home is invaluable, blending seamlessly with the philosophy of the Glass and the Glow, nurturing nature without conquering it.
I learned that closed-system terrariums offer a unique balance in maintaining a mini-ecosystem. As researchers from Extension Mississippi State University note, "Closed-system terrariums use a closed (or nearly closed) container. These containers sustain the ecosystem necessary for moisture- and humidity-loving plants." This self-sustainability caught my attention early on. It's fascinating that once the glass lid rests securely in place, nature begins its slow dance of condensation, precipitation, and growth.
Choosing a container and the right materials is crucial. A recent guide from Instructables emphasizes, "This instructable will give you a guide to collecting and cultivating moss and making a closed jar Terrarium." And so, with my spaniel alongside, we wander through local wooded areas, searching for the softest moss and the perfect stones to bring nature indoors.
The whiff of wet earth as I position the moss evokes memories of fallen leaves and distant rain — a pleasant smell that fills the space more surely than any candle might. From time to time, I do encounter challenges. I'll admit, some early attempts ended in moldy jars and withered plants, teaching me patience and a watchful eye on moisture levels. But over time, as I honed my craft, the jar became a world open only in its delightful transparency.
It's a gentle, meditative work that pairs beautifully with my yoga practice — breathwork and nature both informing each other. Perhaps in the process, I've become something of a curator rather than simply a creator. As Moss and Stone Gardens suggests, "Choose a container with clear glass to ensure visibility and lighting." While the glass exposes every detail, it also frames it, allowing a glimpse into an unhurried world — one that is close yet always beyond my reach.
So now, as I polish my copper vessels in the evening before settling my tools away, what remains is a quiet invitation: Have you considered creating your own forest in a jar? Or perhaps you've already begun to cultivate a peace that's entirely your own?
