GARDEN
GARDEN
The supplied terrarium guide makes the same point: an asymmetrical arrangement of stone, wood and natural materials generally looks more convincing than something too neat and geometric.
Take the tiny garden outside
This is where the terminology becomes slightly blurred.
A sealed glass terrarium is really an indoor creature. Putting one outside in the South African sun can turn it into a miniature greenhouse remarkably quickly and overheat the plants. Even indoors, closed terrariums should be kept away from direct summer sun.
For the patio, stoep or sheltered outdoor entertainment area, rather create an open terrarium or miniature container garden.
“ For the patio, stoep or sheltered outdoor entertainment area, rather create an open terrarium or miniature container garden.”
A wide open glass vessel can work in bright shade, but so can a shallow decorative pot, trough or bowl. The principle remains the same: create a miniature landscape with plants, stone and different levels.
Succulents are an obvious choice for a waterwise display. Just make sure the container can shed excess water or is positioned where heavy rain cannot fill it. An open container without a drainage hole still needs extremely careful watering.
For a larger outdoor mini garden, you have even more freedom. Mix plants of different heights and textures, incorporate pebbles and larger rocks, and leave little open spaces rather than trying to fill every centimetre.
MARKtoe! September 2026 79