At Home: Grow small

Need to escape summer heat or stay dry in the rain? Miniature gardens and terrariums can keep green thumbs going indoors.

Miniature gardens

These gardens in a bowl can be customized with decorations or turned into tiny fairy gardens. Places like Culver's Garden Center and Greenhouse in Marion sell starter plants in 2-inch pots and decorative accessories.

Choose a low dish with a hole in the bottom for drainage. An optional layer of rocks can provide additional drainage. Use potting mix instead of heavy soil.

Pick plants that will stay small, and choose a mix of plants that need similar sun and water levels. Some plants will love bright, south-facing windows. Others will be happier in lower light.

Succulents are popular in miniature gardens. These plants are slow growing, low maintenance and don't need a lot of water. Miniature conifers are also popular. When winter arrives, place them in a cool room with no heat or closed vents.

Tiny plants are easy to overwater, so check the moisture level of the soil with a finger before watering.

Terrariums

These enclosed or mostly-enclosed gardens start with a glass bowl. Place a layer of horticultural charcoal in the bottom to help filter air and water and add a layer of rocks for drainage. Most terrariums need to be watered initially and then occasionally misted with a spray bottled. Keep terrariums out of full sunlight, as heated glass can burn the plants.

Air plants need no soil and are popular terrarium plants. Ferns are another popular choice.

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Culver's Garden Center and Greenhouse makes outdoor living dreams come to life. Stroll through the gardens, nursery, greenhouse and gift shop for inspiration and see why Culver's grown plants are 'Bigger Blooming and Better Performing!'

1682 Dubuque Rd., Marion; (319) 377-4195 | Culverslandscape.com