BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

Making a terrarium is about as close as you can get to a Zen DIY project. Once you have gathered the proper materials and squared away your plant selections, it's as simple as layering it all together and watching your mini ecosystem thrive. Here, I'll walk you through my foolproof process and cover all the required elements for good filtration, healthy soil, strong root growth and resistance against fungus and disease.

- CARMEN DE LA PAZ

Step 1: Choose a proper container. Select a lidded container that will trap moisture inside and hold enough soil and drainage layers to support the growth of your plants.

Note: Due to the high moisture level and lack of drainage holes, a closedlid terrarium has a high risk for root rot, fungus and disease, so drainage layers are extremely important.

Step 2: Select plants. Choose plants that will thrive in the high-moisture environment of a closed terrariumconsult someone at your local garden center for recommendations. To give your mini garden plenty of visual interest, select plants that are different in height, leaf shape and color.

Note: Succulents and cactuses are better for open-style terrariums and require different growing conditions (more on page 43).

Step 3: Start with a draining base layer. Lay a 12-in. sand bed into the container. On top of that, add 1-in. layer of small to medium pebbles or small stones. These base layers will pull excess water away from the roots of the plants, helping to prevent decay and disease. If desired, you can add a thicker layer of either material.