The Making Of A Woodland Terrarium

mini woodland biosphere

When Cocoon Home was recently commissioned to create a terrarium, I thought that a woodland scene would be perfect given that trees and shrubs will soon to be bare.  Using ferns, begonias and mosses the terrarium takes on a lush green micro-climate that can be be enjoyed all year round. Take a look at how it came together:

Begonias, mosses and ferns need to stay moist, not wet and definitely not dry, so I created mini oasis pots to plant them in.  The oasis will hold the moisture while the charcoal placed on the bottom of the vase will purify the excess water.  The plants will just need to be sprayed lightly once a week.

Getting To The Root Of It: Part 2

Less than 3 weeks ago my son and I took cuttings of Coleus plants from our garden in hopes to preserve a bit of summer.  They've taken root and Benjamin is super excited.  Take a look!

We'll let them continue rooting until midwinter and then plant them in a pot.  When spring returns here for good, back to the garden they'll go.  To see part 1 of Getting To The Root Of It click here.

 

 

Getting To The Root Of It: Preserving The Summer Garden

With the harvest moon hanging over us, I can't help but contemplate how my garden will cope with lesser light and cooler nights ahead.  In an effort to preserve some favorite summer plants, my son and I cut several Coleus plant stems to root over the winter.  If you live in 'cooler' climates, it's nice to keep vibrant signs of life around when winter settles in.  Some warm weather botanicals can be cut to promote rooting and others can be  brought inside for springtime re-planting.   Take a look at what my son Benjamin and I did this past weekend.

Check your garden to see what you can cut or bring indoors to enjoy during the cooler or amazingly cold (New England) months to come.  Below is a list of plants that can winter over inside your home.  Does your garden have any?

Note:  Plant cuttings are a great project to undertake with your children.  They get to see the roots grow during the winter months with the expectation to plant them when spring arrives.  The circle of life.

Here are a few plants that you can bring indoors during the winter (be sure to check for insects before you do):  Hibiscus, Begonia, Geranium, Abutilon and Hydrangea.

 

Roof Deck Reveal

Whether reading, eating dessert or playing with bubbles our new roof deck has proved to be well worth the effort and wait.  Take a look at how our family has been utilizing this new space as an additional outdoor room.

Two West Elm double loungers with Ikat pillows provide cozy seating for the whole family.

Found during a Maine beach hike,  the driftwood was planted with succulents.

To see the deck before the transformation click here and for a full house tour check out Apartment Therapy.