Through the Looking Glass

This entry is dedicated to moisture loving and finicky plants. I'll show you how easy it is to create microclimates and open your eyes to the beauty of growing specimens in glass. These tricky plants will be easy to care for once we build their new homes.

Humidity is the presence of water vapor in the air. Many houseplants require high humidity in order to survive. Continuous misting or use of pebble trays will help. However, most schedules don't allow for endless spritzing. In my home, trays of water are just waiting to be spilled. Glass globes are an elegant way to create the perfect atmosphere for humidity-loving plants. The delicate and reflective qualities of glass, enliven a space and add weightlessness to crowded displays.

Like butterfly wings, Calathea leaves unfurl to reveal intriguing colours and designs. However, you may notice those brilliant patterns are beginning to fade. Check your lighting conditions. Calathea leaves prefer indirect light. Too much sun will bleach the delicate leaves. Brown or crispy edges signal a need for humidity. Once you back the plant away from its sunny perch, consider a glass dome to help keep the leaves looking their best. Calatheas perform beautifully showcased in a bubble bowl. The glass sides help capture and recirculate the water vapor, creating a microclimate. When rooted in a proper mixture of potting soil, charcoal and fine-grade orchiata bark, this plant is sure to thrive. Pictured below is one of my favourite varieties: Calathea Dottie.

A singular plant, housed in glass, is like a wonderful book. Creating an Orb of Life, is a great children's project that combines imagination, science and fun. Introduce your kids to Nepenthes; more commonly known as a pitcher plant. Pitcher plants are carnivorous little beasts. The pitcher secretes an irresistible nectar to attract its prey. Enchanted by the elixir, insects slip on the sleek rim of the cup and tumble to their demise. The glassy walls are too slick to climb; once swallowed up, there is no hope of getting out. Tropical pitcher plants also need to grow in warm and humid environments. To help retain moisture, I keep my specimen snuggled in a blanket of forest moss, warmed by the heat of a desk lamp. I add an extra handful of bark to the usual potting mixture. The bark helps aerate the soil for healthy root development.

Maidenhair Ferns, press all of my visual joy buttons! The leaves are shaped like miniature fans that travel along black wiry stems. The slightest breath or movement sends these nymphs into a dance. These beauties, prefer indirect light, high humidity and moist, but well-drained soil. Once again, a glass bowl can provide the perfect growing conditions for this plant.

Here is a step-by-step guide to creating your own Orb of Life with a Maidenhair fern:

Step1. Grab a large salad bowl and fill 3/4 full with premium potting mix. Throw in a handful of charcoal and this time, we are adding in two big scoops of fine-grade orchiata bark. Combine all ingredients together.

Step2. Fill 1/3 of the glass bowl with growing mixture. Make sure to choose a container that has plenty of headspace for the plant to grow. Create a little crater in the centre of the soil. Nestle the root ball into place and fill around the plant to create an even surface.