Cacti are beautiful and unique plants that can add a touch of desert to any home. However, some cacti species contain toxic compounds that can be dangerous to pets and humans upon contact with the skin or when ingested. Most cacti evolved to grow spines or be poisonous as a way of survival. In arid…
The growth rate of cacti usually varies depending on various factors including the species, growing conditions, and care provided. Some species of cacti notably grow quite faster in ideal conditions, while others may take several years to show any significant increase in height or branching. Generally, cacti have adapted to a slow growth rate due…
Pumice and perlite are commonly used in making soilless growth media in combination with other organic ingredients like coco coir or peat moss. These coarse non-toxic mineral components are also added to most potting mixes to improve drainage, aeration, and moisture retention. Adding pumice or perlite to standard potting soil makes overwatering impossible. The porosity…
Worm castings, also known as vermicompost, are the organic waste produced by worms as they digest organic matter. They are highly rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes. Using them in container gardening can help improve soil fertility, drainage, moisture retention, and aeration. Unlike traditional compost, worm castings are absorbed into the soil immediately, making nutrients…
Coco coir and peat moss are both popular products used in container gardening and hydroponic growing. They are all processed and sold as potting media, soil amendment, or mulch. Let’s compare coco coir and peat moss in terms of their characteristics, benefits, sustainability, and effectiveness. Peat moss is harvested from bogs containing sphagnum moss and…
Most plants grown in a closed terrarium have adapted to thrive in humid conditions. Therefore low humidity can have negative effects on the health of the plants and the overall ecosystem. That’s why it’s important to keep monitoring the terrarium moisture levels and adjust as needed. On the other hand, excess moisture is potentially damaging….
Closed terrariums can be a beautiful addition to any space including home and office. They are usually sealed to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where plants grow and thrive with minimal care. The container is usually transparent, allowing in light and you can also observe the plants inside. The closed terrarium works on the principle of…
Closed terrariums are typically easy to care for than potted plants. Since they are enclosed, they recycle moisture and this reduces the need for watering. However, they require regular monitoring for moisture levels, pruning to control plant growth and occasional cleaning of the glass. The first step in creating a low-maintenance closed terrarium is to…
Springtails are known to feed on fungi, algae, or decaying organic matter. If you have a closed terrarium with live plants, springtails can be helpful in keeping the ecosystem clean and healthy. They also aerate the soil thus making air, moisture, and nutrients easily available to the plant roots. Terrariums are typically enclosed, which means…
The growth of mold in your terrarium is not just unhealthy for your plants but also a risk to your family members. Mold produces spores and other airborne toxins which may cause allergic reactions when inhaled. In this guide, I’ll explain what causes mold in the terrarium, its signs, and how to get rid of…