A garden jar is a glass container with plants enclosed in it. It is a fairly recent trend and can be very attractive. The jar is placed in a well-prepared substrate and it creates its own microclimate. This type of container is called a garden in a jar and is suitable for moisture-loving, slow-growing species that thrive in this kind of environment.
Taking care of a garden in a jar is not difficult. The most important thing is to choose a glass container that has a large enough opening at the top, which is needed for easy placement of the plants. It is also a good idea to add a small drainage layer by hand, such as pebbles or expanded clay. The drainage layer should be at least 3 cm thick and it is a good idea to place a couple of tablespoons of crushed charcoal on it to help remove excess moisture.
The best way to take care of a garden in a jug is to make sure that it is kept in a cool spot with diffused light. The temperature of the jar should not exceed 60°F (14°C).
In addition to providing a home for flowers and other plant life, a garden jar can be used to preserve foodstuffs such as jams and jellies. The late 19th century saw the introduction of glass jars with threaded lids that allowed Victorian housewives to can their own fruits and vegetables, preserving them for later use.
A garden jar can also be used to display collectibles. The most popular types of jars for this purpose are a clear glass bell jar and a glass or plastic vase.
Most of these containers are accompanied by decorative elements such as bark, moss or miniature animal figures. They are also commonly used as display stands for small statues or plants.
Using a garden jar to grow vegetables and herbs is a smart move for people who love their greens but don’t have the space to spare for an extensive vegetable or herb garden. It can be a very inexpensive alternative to buying plants at the grocery store and it allows you to put more variety into your meals.