A terrarium is as fascinating as an aquarium, only less happening due to the absence of ever-moving fishes. However, here’s is a group of scientists and designers who’ve established TerraLiving, a bio-architecture inspired design lab in Malaysia, that creates beautiful customizable terrariums of such exquisite beauty that their creations have already notched up a viewership over 135,000 on Instagram alone.
Each portable terrarium is a work of art that showcases moss in its pristine form and breathtaking arrangements. From the ultra-portable Mosser series to the highly sophisticated series, like Wardian Pod, a delightful amalgamation of terrariums and ecosystems.
Of course, these beautiful TerraLiving tiny gardens are aimed at providing nature on everybody’s desktop. And that too in the form of an assortment of mosses, such as Bun Moss, Feather Moss, Foxtail Moss, Hair Moss, Pillow Moss, Sphagnum Baby, Sphagnum Moss, Sporophyte of Pillow Moss, Star Moss and Thyme Moss.
TerraLiving offers two series of terrariums – the ZERO series and the Live series. The ZERO series makes use of the highest quality moss that’s selected at its healthiest state. It’s then put through rapid cooling and moisture removal. Afterward, it’s preserved by safe cosmetic and food-grade material and rehydrated to replace the removed moisture. This makes the moss regain its original softness, texture, shape, and smell.
Although ZERO moss is totally real and natural, it’s no longer alive and in a sort of suspended animation, where it doesn’t grow. Since it requires zero maintenance, hence the name. If kept properly sealed, it can last for five to 10 years!
The Live series, on the other hand, constitutes live moss cultivation, which itself is considered an art. If you think moss cultivation in the greenhouse is easy, think again. It requires discipline and great attention to detail. As compared to wild moss or freshly imported moss, the three-month-old cultivated moss is not only vibrant, fluffy, and tough, but also disease resistant.
The key to the longevity of such miniature indoor gardens is their upkeep. The moss should never be overwatered but should be sprayed with clean water. It should be kept indoors with good air circulation and under indoor light, and never under direct sunlight.
