Remote Woodland Terrarium Class
Taught by Ben DiMatteo
A true fan of the woods, Ben has logged hundreds of miles solo and group trekking particularly on trails that can be reached from the city by public transportation. His youth in scouting and many adult years spent rediscovering the lost art of woodcraft provide a tried-and-true wealth of knowledge that can't be gleaned from gear reviews or recreation store salespeople. Though he hasn't thru-hiked the AT, he's sure he could.
When in the city, Ben brings the great outdoors inside and teaches several classes on how to make and keep terrariums.
For many Decembers I have taught this popular class so participants can make their own terrariums as a unique and thoughtful holiday gift, and with the Covid shutdown I've developed a way to teach my special technique while still offering attendees the opportunity to join in at home.
The art of the terrarium has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly in the flea markets and boutiques that grace this borough, but with a few simple tools and some choice plants, you could make your own tiny container garden that will rival any you could purchase ready-made.
The woodland terrarium, with its leafy foliage, creeping moss, and heavy use of stones and bark, is perhaps the quintessential terrarium landscape. It also happens to be the landscape of New York City and its environs.
Learning techniques developed decades ago by master terrarium gardeners, you'll create your own woodland-style terrarium using plants, soil and materials you can readily find at the local garden center, multi-purpose hardware store or even in your own backyard.
Topics covered:
- a brief history of indoor gardening
- basic plant physiology
- different terrarium styles to mimic different environments
- choosing plants for your terrarium
- how to make your own tools using common household items
- principles of miniature landscaping
- how to care for your terrarium
Upon registering for the class, you will be sent a list of supplies to make your own terrarium at home, a list of some simple tools and utensils you will need, and a description of suitable containers to help you choose the right one. To give you an overview, you'll need a glass container, sphagnum moss, 3-5 tropical plants, soil and rocks, but we'll send a detailed list when you register!
