How to Create a Mini Ecosystem
A terrarium is an example of a mini-ecosystem that is fairly simple to construct using easily obtained materials. A terrarium can be used as an educational tool to explain what materials are required to make a self-sustaining mini-ecosystem. In addition, depending on the materials you use, a terrarium can easily double as attractive home decor.
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Things You'll Need
- Glass container with lid
- Pebbles
- Activated charcoal
- Potting soil
- Variety of miniature plants
- Water
Instructions
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Obtain a glass container that has a tight-fitting lid. You can find containers at many craft or home improvement stores. Most are rectangular, but they don't need to be. Look for a container with a wide opening; this will make placing the materials and plants into the container much easier.
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Choose plants for your mini-ecosystem. Miniature plants work the best; you may be able to find miniature plants at your local garden center, or you may opt to purchase them online.
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Place a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the container; this layer will allow for water filtration/drainage in your mini-ecosystem. This layer should be about a half-inch to one inch deep.
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Place a layer of activated charcoal on top of the pebble layer. This will help with aeration in your mini-ecosystem. This layer should be about a quarter-inch thick. You can find activated charcoal in pet stores in the aquarium section.
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Add a layer of potting soil on top of the activated charcoal layer. If you decide to make a mini desert ecosystem, use specialized potting soil meant for succulent plants. The soil layer should be one to two inches thick; the amount you use will depend on the root length of your plants.
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Determine the best placement of your plants inside your mini-ecosystem.
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Dig a small hole in the soil layer for each plant. Remove each plant from its pot, gently loosen the root ball, and place each plant into its pre-dug hole.
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After planting your plants, lightly water the soil.
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Place the lid onto your glass container, and place your mini-ecosystem in an area that receives plenty of sunlight. Though your mini-ecosystem should not require any additional water, be sure to monitor the plant's health and add additional water when necessary. Also, if there appears to be an abundance of condensation, remove the lid for a short period of time to allow the mini-ecosystem to dry out slightly.
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Tips & Warnings
The most important thing to take into consideration when choosing plants is what their requirements are: You should select plants that require the same amounts of water and/or sunlight. Do not make a mixed ecosystem with both tropical and desert plants.
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