Wardian Cases and Terrariums
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Discover the fascinating world of Wardian cases and terrariums, where plants thrive in sealed glass containers. Explore their history and benefits.
TL;DR
Dr Nathaniel Ward discovered that plants could be grown in sealed glass containers, leading to the invention of the Wardian case.
- Plants can be grown in sealed glass containers.
- Wardian cases made it possible to grow green foliage plants in Victorian drawing rooms.
- Moisture condenses on the inside of the glass and runs back down into the soil.
Growing Plants in Glass Cases
Just over a hundred years ago Dr Nathaniel Ward, a London physician, discovered that plants could be grown in sealed glass containers and his discovery, helped by his invention of the Wardian case, made it possible to grow green foliage plants in a Victorian drawing room with a minimum of trouble.
By present day standards these were somewhat ornate and heavy in design, but the principle is excellent today. The moisture is transpired from the leaves and being unable to escape into the atmosphere, condenses on the inside of the glass and runs back down into the soil, then again becomes available for the use of the roots, in a sort of perpetual motion cycle.
These sealed glass cases were originally invented by Dr Ward as a means of transporting exotic plants on long sea voyages. Needing no attention in transit, it was a successful method, and was later adapted for Victorian drawing rooms. There seems to be no reason why one should not be constructed in an alcove, or corner, perhaps in conjunction with artificial light.
Making and maintaining a Fern case
Small aquariums with a base of slate cut to fit the floor and some small pieces of water-worn rock placed on top of the soil make good fern cases; using young ferns less than 2 inches high if possible. When planted with the ferns, the garden can be sprayed thoroughly, a piece of glass, cut to fit, placed on top and then left undisturbed for some months.
When it appears to be dry the top can be lifted off, the fine spraying repeated and the top replaced.
Creating and caring for a terrarium
Terrariums are also easy to look after and again watering is cut to a minimum. The sides should be lined with moss for about a third of their height and then a base of charcoal should be put on the bottom, followed by l inch of gravel and a layer of soil mixture.
Two parts loam, two parts coarse sand, one part leaf-mold is a suitable medium. The largest and tallest plants should be put at the back, the smallest at the front. The glass lid of the terrarium should be removed for a few hours if water condenses inside. It should be placed in a good light, but not strong sunlight.
Plants suitable for growing in terrariums are winter-flowering begonias, Fittonia, Helxine, miniature ivies, Maranta, palms, Peperomia and saintpaulias.
Just over a hundred years ago Dr Nathaniel Ward, a London physician, discovered that plants could be grown in sealed glass containers and his discovery, helped by his invention of the Wardian case, made it possible to grow green foliage plants in a Victorian drawing room with a minimum of trouble.
More Information on Wardian Cases and Terrariums
Wardian Cases and terrariums revolutionized the way plants could be grown in enclosed environments. Dr. Nathaniel Ward, a London physician, discovered that plants could thrive inside sealed glass containers, leading to the invention of the Wardian case. These cases allowed green foliage plants to be cultivated in Victorian drawing rooms with minimal effort. The principle behind their success lies in the moisture transpired from the leaves, which condenses on the inside of the glass and drips back into the soil, creating a perpetual motion cycle of water supply for the roots. Originally, Wardian cases were designed as a means of transporting exotic plants on long sea voyages. Their effectiveness in maintaining plants without any attention during transit led to their adaptation for indoor use. Today, Wardian cases can be constructed in alcoves or corners of our homes, creating miniature botanical showcases. They can even be combined with artificial lighting to provide optimal conditions for plant growth. In addition to Wardian cases, terrariums offer a unique and low-maintenance way to display plants. These glass containers are lined with moss and feature a layered bottom of charcoal, gravel, and a soil mixture. Terrariums provide a controlled environment where watering is kept to a minimum due to the enclosed space. They are ideal for growing a variety of plants, including winter-flowering begonias, Fittonia, miniature ivies, Maranta, palms, Peperomia, and saintpaulias. Both Wardian cases and terrariums offer a captivating way to bring greenery into our living spaces. They not only add a touch of nature but also create a self-sustaining ecosystem within the glass walls, allowing us to enjoy the beauty of plants with minimal effort.
About the author
Rupert Foxton-Smythe is a seasoned horticulturist and avid plant enthusiast with over three decades of experience in the field of botany. As a leading expert at Houseplant Guru, Rupert brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for all things green.
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