Plants have an incredible way of brightening up any space, and growing them in jars is an easy, creative, and space-saving solution that adds charm and a touch of nature to your home. Whether you’re looking for a fun DIY project or simply want to bring a bit of greenery indoors, growing plants in jars offers an accessible and stylish way to start your own little indoor garden. Below are five creative and easy ideas to grow beautiful plants in jars that will enhance your living spaces.
1. Herb Garden in Jars
Growing your own herbs at home is a rewarding and practical way to add fresh flavors to your meals. Herbs thrive in jars because they don’t require a lot of space and are easy to maintain. The best part is that you can place them on a sunny windowsill or any bright spot in your kitchen for easy access while cooking.
Start with a clean, clear glass jar, such as a mason jar, and fill it about halfway with well-draining potting soil. You can grow a variety of herbs in separate jars, such as basil, mint, parsley, thyme, or rosemary. To plant the herbs, make a small hole in the soil, insert the herb cutting or seed, and cover lightly with more soil.
Herbs need plenty of sunlight, so place your jars in a spot that receives at least 4–6 hours of sunlight each day. Be sure to water them regularly, but don’t overdo it herbs do not like soggy soil. You can also create a mini herb garden by grouping multiple jars together in a decorative tray or wooden box.
Growing herbs in jars not only adds beauty to your kitchen but also gives you the convenience of having fresh herbs at your fingertips whenever you need them.
2. Succulent Garden in Jars
Succulents are a popular choice for indoor gardening because of their low-maintenance nature and unique, sculptural appearance. They require minimal water and can thrive in containers with little care, making them perfect for growing in jars. You can choose from a variety of succulents, such as echeveria, aloe, jade plant, or cactus, to create an attractive and easy-to-care-for jar garden.
For succulent jars, it’s important to use a container with good drainage, as succulents do not like to sit in water. If you’re using a jar with no drainage hole, you can add a layer of small pebbles or rocks at the bottom to help with water drainage. After adding the rocks, layer some cactus or succulent soil on top, and then plant your succulents by gently pressing them into the soil.
Succulents prefer bright, indirect sunlight, so place your jars near a window that gets plenty of light but not direct sun. Water your succulents sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes when caring for succulents, so be sure to let the jar dry out before adding more water.
Succulent jars create a beautiful, minimalist aesthetic and are perfect for adding a modern, trendy touch to any room.
3. Air Plants in Jars
Air plants, also known as Tillandsias, are fascinating plants that don’t need soil to grow. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air through their leaves, making them ideal for growing in jars. These plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and their unusual forms make them a striking addition to any space.
To grow air plants in jars, start by choosing a clear glass jar with an opening wide enough to allow air circulation. Simply place the air plant inside the jar and let it sit on top of decorative stones or moss for a beautiful display. Since air plants don’t need soil, you can get creative with how you arrange them, whether it’s hanging them from the jar’s rim or arranging them in a way that complements the jar’s design.
Air plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, so place the jar near a window or in a well-lit room. They also need to be watered regularly, typically by soaking the plant in water for about 30 minutes every 1–2 weeks, depending on the humidity in your home. After soaking, shake off any excess water and allow the plant to dry completely before returning it to the jar.
Air plants are perfect for those who want an easy-to-care-for plant with a unique, modern look. Plus, they don’t require a lot of space, making them ideal for small apartments or office spaces.
4. Terrarium in Jars
Creating a terrarium in a jar is like building a miniature, self-sustaining ecosystem. A terrarium is perfect for growing small plants such as ferns, moss, or miniature tropical plants in a closed environment that mimics a natural habitat. The glass jar acts as a miniature greenhouse, creating a humid, warm environment for your plants to thrive in.
To create a terrarium, begin by selecting a clear glass jar with a wide opening so you can easily access the plants inside. Start by adding a layer of small rocks or pebbles at the bottom for drainage. Follow with a layer of activated charcoal to prevent odor and mold, and then add a layer of potting soil suited for the types of plants you’ll be growing.
When it comes to choosing plants for your terrarium, select species that do well in humidity, such as ferns, moss, or small tropical plants. Arrange them inside the jar, ensuring each plant has enough space to grow. You can also add decorative elements, such as small figurines, shells, or stones, to personalize the look.
Terrariums do best in indirect light, so place your jar in a bright room but away from direct sunlight, which can cause the plants to overheat. Water sparingly terrariums are designed to be self-sustaining, and too much water can create excess humidity, which may lead to mold growth. Occasionally open the jar to allow fresh air to circulate.
Terrariums in jars are a creative way to bring nature indoors, and their lush, green aesthetic is perfect for any room in your home.
5. Moss Garden in Jars
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance and enchanting way to grow plants in jars, a moss garden is the perfect solution. Mosses are hardy, easy to care for, and thrive in moist, shaded environments. A moss garden in a jar brings a sense of tranquility and natural beauty to your space.
To create a moss garden, start by selecting a clear jar or glass container with a wide opening. Begin by layering small rocks or pebbles at the bottom for drainage, followed by a thin layer of activated charcoal to prevent odors and mold. Add a layer of soil suitable for moss growth, such as a combination of peat moss and sand. Once the soil is in place, gently press the moss into the soil, arranging it in a way that creates a natural, textured look.
Moss gardens thrive in low to medium light conditions, making them perfect for bathrooms or areas of your home that don’t get direct sunlight. Keep the moss moist but not soaked, and mist it with water regularly to maintain the humidity levels inside the jar. If the moss starts to dry out, you can gently soak it in water and allow it to rehydrate.
A moss garden in a jar is a serene and beautiful way to add greenery to your home, and it requires minimal upkeep.
Conclusion
Growing beautiful plants in jars is an easy and creative way to add life and color to your home. Whether you choose to grow herbs, succulents, air plants, a terrarium, or a moss garden, jars provide a unique and customizable way to showcase your plants. With just a little creativity and care, you can create stunning plant displays that bring the beauty of nature indoors. Happy gardening!
