- 1). Select deep clear glass containers with tight-fitting tops, such as fish tanks or a ready-made large terrarium. Plants that produce food need deep root systems. Root crops such as carrots and potatoes need to be able to grow downward. The depth of the root systems will vary from 12 inches to 24 inches, depending on the species of plant or tree.
- 2). Place the terrarium in a sunny location where it will receive at least eight hours of filtered light every day. Filtered light is indirect sunlight, such as sunshine coming through a glass window or sliding glass door. Heat becomes more intense in a glass container, so do not place the terrarium in direct sunlight, such as outside on the patio. Use adjustable grow lights if the house or apartment does not have a sunny window.
- 3). Spread a layer of pebbles across the bottom of the terrarium. This layer should be 3/4-inch deep to provide for proper drainage. Drainage is necessary to prevent root rot and mold.
- 4). Spread a layer of charcoal on top of the pebbles. Use the type of charcoal for fish tanks, not the type used for barbecue grills. The charcoal layer should completely cover the pebble layer.
- 5). Fill the terrarium with the amount and type of growing medium recommended on the seed packet or by the grower. The growing needs of fruits and vegetables vary. The plants may need a high-nitrogen potting soil, a low-nitrogen soil or a sandy foundation.
- 6). Soak, but do not drench, the soil and let the terrarium sit without the lid for 24 hours.
- 7). Plant the seeds or seedlings in the terrarium. Leave enough space between plants to avoid transplanting; transplanting stresses the root system, and the plant may not flower. Flowering is necessary in order to produce fruits and vegetables.
- 8). Check the terrarium every day to see if the plants need water or if there is too much humidity. Remove the lid for a day or two to reduce the humidity, if necessary. Controlling the humidity will reduce the chance of mold.
- 9). Insert any necessary plant supports or trellises to train the seedlings by first making a hole with your finger. Pushing the trellis directly into the ground could break the tender roots of the plants.
- 10
Harvest the fruits and vegetables as soon as they are fully ripe. Do not let them fall to the ground and decompose, as this will contribute to the production of mold in the terrarium.
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