A geometric terrarium refers to geometrically shaped planting containers. The terrariums are usually small and enclosed like a small planting ecosystem. Geometric terrariums are famous for the complex, yet intricate shapes and angles that are enclosed by a transparent material, which could be glass or plastic.
The first known terrarium was invented by Nathaniel Bagshaw by accident in 1842. During Bagshaw’s study of insect behavior at the time, he forgot one of the sealed jars that contained a fern spore. Over time, the fern spore grew to become a plant and it was recorded as the first terrarium.
After this breakthrough, the concept of the terrarium became very popular and was then known as the ‘Wardian Case’. Soon the ‘Wardian Cases’ were produced in bulk and used as a means of transporting native plants from Britain to Australia.
It was noticed that the plants thrived even after months of transportation and the ‘Wardian cases’ were adopted by several plant companies to safely transport plants in and out of the British Empire.
Types of geometric terrarium
There are two main types of terraria and they are open and closed terraria
Open terrarium
Some plants do not thrive well in enclosed spaces and do not require a lot of humidity to grow. Open terrariums are designed to be completely open or with some parts of the glass removed to help maintain the right temperature and humidity levels for the plants to grow. Also, there are plants that need direct sunlight to thrive, the open terrarium is best for planting such specie
Closed terrarium
The closed terrarium is completely sealed to keep moisture and allow for proper circulation of water within the terrarium. This is used for plants like ferns that require a constant temperature and level of humidity to thrive. However, the closed terrarium can be opened routinely, like once a week for cleaning and maintenance to prevent the growth of mold that would affect the growth of the plants and discoloration of the glass.
Benefits of geometric terrarium
Here are some of the benefits of planting with geometric terrariums:
They are suitable for plants that require specific growing conditions
Some plants require a maintained and enclosed environment to thrive as they cannot survive with dry air or exposure to direct sunlight. Terrariums make planting such species of plants easy and possible.
They are easy to maintain
With terrariums, there’s no groundwork and soil preparation required before planting. Maintenance involves wearing as required, cleaning the casing of the terrarium, which is not so tasking because they are small, and removing a few weeds that might sprout in the course of growth.
They do not occupy too much room
Geometric terrariums are small and perfect for growing a mini-garden of just a few herbs. They do not require a large expanse of land., and nor do they need to be kept outdoors.
Conclusion
Geometric terrariums can be kept on table tops, countertops, or even shelves and can add a bit of an eccentric look to your space. You can use them to grow your favorite herbs without having to tend to a large garden riddled with weeds and pests.
