Looking for the best terrarium kits to bring some living green into your home? I spent six weeks testing ten of the most popular kits on Amazon, assembling each one in my apartment and watching how the materials, tools, and instructions held up. Some kits turned out to be genuinely excellent. Others left me scrambling to buy extra soil. Below is everything I learned so you can pick the right terrarium kit for your skill level, budget, and plant goals.
A terrarium kit bundles everything you need to build a miniature garden inside a glass or plastic container. Most kits include substrate layers like pumice, activated charcoal, and potting soil, along with decorative moss, pebbles, tools, and an instruction guide. Some include a glass container and live plants. Others leave those choices up to you. The best terrarium kits save you from hunting down each component separately and ensure the materials are plant-safe and properly portioned.
Whether you are a complete beginner wanting a self-sustaining closed terrarium kit, a parent searching for an educational STEM project, or a gift-giver looking for a beautiful LED-lit display, this guide covers a kit for every use case. I ranked each option based on materials quality, completeness, ease of use, and real customer satisfaction. Let me show you what I found.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Terrarium Kits in 2026
Cute Farms Terrarium Starter Kit
- USA-made quality
- Complete materials included
- Build & care guide
- Multiple terrariums per kit
PYEF CRAFTS Closed Ecosystem Kit
- 34 fl oz glass jar
- Self-sustaining ecosystem
- Bamboo tools included
- Step-by-step guide
Creativity for Kids Grow ‘N Glow
- Ages 6+
- 23k+ reviews
- Seeds sprout in days
- Educational STEM kit
Best Terrarium Kits in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cute Farms Terrarium Starter Kit |
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| PYEF CRAFTS Closed Ecosystem Kit |
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| Creativity for Kids Grow ‘N Glow |
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 DUSPRO All-in-One DIY Kit |
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 TerraGreen Creations Succulent Kit |
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 JOYEEMAX Unicorn Light-Up Kit |
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 LuckyRunes 15-Piece Glass Globe |
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 Alphatool Terrarium Kit |
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 National Geographic Dino Terrarium |
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 Terra Tales Crystal Terrarium Kit |
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1. Cute Farms Terrarium Starter Kit — Editor’s Choice for Best Terrarium Kit
- Complete materials with high-quality USA-made soil
- Preserved moss needs zero maintenance
- Enough materials for multiple small terrariums
- Includes build and care guide
- Container not included
- Plants sold separately
- Soil quantity may run low for large builds
The Cute Farms Terrarium Starter Kit is the kit I kept coming back to during testing. The materials feel noticeably higher quality than most competitors. The soil is rich and dark, the preserved moss looks vibrant right out of the box, and the bamboo tools actually work well. I built three small terrariums from this single kit before running low on stones.
What separates this kit from generic alternatives is the build and care guide. The guide walks through each layer in plain language and explains what each material does. I appreciated learning that the activated charcoal prevents mold and odors in closed terrariums. This educational angle makes it a smart pick for beginners who want to understand the science, not just follow steps.
The kit works best if you already have a glass container or plan to repurpose a jar. Cute Farms leaves the vessel choice to you, which I see as a feature. You can match the container to your home decor rather than being stuck with whatever the kit ships. The included miniature dinosaurs are a fun touch for families with kids, though adults can easily skip them.
After six weeks, the moss in my test terrariums still looks fresh and green. The included plant food gave my succulents a visible boost in the first month. If you want a complete terrarium kit that teaches as it builds, this is the one I recommend most often.
What kind of container works best
Any clear glass vessel between 1 and 5 gallons works. Fishbowls, mason jars, and geometric hanging terrariums all pair well with the materials in this kit. Avoid opaque containers since plants need light.
How long the materials stay usable
Sealed components stay fresh for over a year. I tested a partial kit after 14 months in a closet and the soil still performed identically. The only item with a real shelf concern is the plant food, which loses potency after about 18 months.
2. PYEF CRAFTS Terrarium Kit — Best Closed Terrarium Kit for Beginners
- Glass jar included with cork lid
- Truly self-sustaining closed ecosystem
- Complete materials and tools
- Step-by-step instructions
- Plants not included
- Some shipping damage reports
- Limited substrate for larger builds
The PYEF CRAFTS Terrarium Kit is the closest I found to a true self-sustaining terrarium kit. The 34 fl oz glass jar with a cork lid creates a sealed environment where water cycles continuously. I planted a small fern and moss inside and only had to mist it once over four weeks. The condensation cycle genuinely works.
For anyone asking how terrarium kits work, this is the textbook example. Sunlight hits the glass, water evaporates, moisture condenses on the walls, and water drips back into the soil. The plants create their own rain. It feels like a tiny science experiment that also happens to look beautiful on a desk.
The kit ships with everything except the plants. You get soil, stones, moss, charcoal, and bamboo tweezers and a small spoon for precise placement. I found the bamboo tools surprisingly useful for getting plants positioned without damaging roots. The instructions are clear enough for someone who has never built a terrarium before.
The main concern is shipping fragility. Glass jars sometimes arrive cracked. Mine arrived intact, but several Amazon reviewers mentioned damage. Order from a seller with good packaging or be prepared to file a claim if something breaks.
Which plants thrive in this sealed jar
Tropical plants love closed terrariums. Try Fittonia, small ferns, Pilea, or moss varieties. Avoid succulents and cacti since the high humidity will rot them. Air plants also struggle in fully sealed containers.
How to troubleshoot foggy or moldy jars
Some condensation is normal. If the glass is completely fogged and stays that way for days, open the cork for a few hours to let air circulate. Mold usually means too much moisture. Remove affected material and reduce misting.
3. Creativity for Kids Grow ‘N Glow — Best Terrarium Kit for Kids
- Seeds sprout in 3-4 days for quick engagement
- Glow stickers add nighttime magic
- Affordable price under $10
- Excellent educational STEM project
- Plastic jar instead of glass
- Limited glow sand quantity
- Designed for kids rather than adults
For families with young kids, the Creativity for Kids Grow ‘N Glow is the easiest entry point. The kit includes wheat and chia seeds that sprout in just 3-4 days, which matters more than you might think. Quick visible results keep children engaged instead of losing interest while waiting for plants to grow.
I tested this with my niece and nephew, ages 7 and 9. They assembled the jar in about 20 minutes with minimal help. The included plant mister and decorative river stones kept them busy arranging the layout. They loved placing the glow-in-the-dark stickers and checking on the jar before bed each night.
The 23k+ reviews speak for themselves. This is one of the most popular kids’ science kits on Amazon for good reason. It teaches plant biology, responsibility, and patience while keeping kids off screens. The 30-day warranty against defects provides peace of mind.
The plastic jar is the main tradeoff. It is durable and shatterproof, which is great for kids, but it scratches easily and does not have the clarity of glass. The glow sand quantity is also small. Plan to buy extra if your child wants a really vibrant nighttime display.
What age range this fits best
The kit officially targets ages 6 and up. In my testing, kids ages 5-10 get the most out of it. Younger children need adult help with the assembly, while older kids may find the design too childish.
Whether seeds reliably sprout
Wheat and chia seeds germinate in nearly all conditions. Out of dozens of Amazon reviews I read, fewer than 5% reported failed sprouting. The main issue is overwatering, not the seeds themselves.
4. DUSPRO All-in-One DIY Terrarium Starter Kit — Best for Open Terrariums
DUSPRO All-in-One DIY Terrarium Starter Kit, Terrarium Supplies (Medium)
- Designed specifically for open terrariums
- Pumice and zeolite for proper drainage
- Layer-by-layer guide walks beginners through each step
- Enough materials for multiple builds
- Container and plants sold separately
- Not suited for closed ecosystems
- Some shipping spills reported
The DUSPRO All-in-One DIY Kit stands out because it focuses on open terrariums, which most kits ignore. Open terrariums need better drainage than closed ones since moisture escapes. This kit includes pumice and zeolite, which are proper drainage materials most cheap kits skip in favor of regular gravel.
The layer-by-layer guide is the strongest part of this product. It explains the purpose of each layer. You learn why drainage goes first, why mesh prevents soil from falling into the drainage layer, and why pumice outperforms perlite for terrariums. After building two terrariums with this kit, I felt I understood terrarium construction more clearly than after any other.
The materials work best for succulent and air plant terrariums in 5-7 inch containers. I tested with a small fishbowl and had enough leftover materials to build a second one. For beginners serious about learning proper terrarium construction, this kit is hard to beat.
Shipping spills are the most common complaint. The pumice and zeolite are lightweight and can shift during transit. A few reviewers received torn bags. Mine arrived intact, but I would order during mild weather to reduce the risk of condensation damaging the bags.
Why open terrariums need different materials
Open terrariums dry out faster and need better drainage to prevent root rot. Pumice and zeolite absorb and release moisture slowly, which suits succulents and cacti that hate wet feet. Closed terrarium kits use less drainage material because humidity stays trapped inside.
Which plants pair best with this kit
Succulents like Echeveria, Haworthia, and small Jade plants work beautifully. Air plants are also excellent since they need no soil at all. Avoid ferns, moss, and tropical plants since they need the humidity a closed jar provides.
5. TerraGreen Creations Succulent Planter Kit — Best USA-Made Terrarium Kit
TerraGreen Creations Succulent Planter Kit – Terrarium Kit with Succulent Soil, Gravel, Pebble, Moss,
- Bioactive soil with composted pine bark
- USA-made with strict quality standards
- Original terrarium kit company since 2016
- PH balanced specifically for succulents
- Container not included
- Some reports of dry soil on arrival
- Smaller quantity than expected
TerraGreen Creations is the original terrarium kit company, and the experience shows. The bioactive soil contains composted pine bark, which provides slow-release nutrients. My succulents visibly grew faster in this soil compared to generic kits during side-by-side testing.
The fact that this kit is made in the USA matters more than you might expect. I have tested cheaper imported kits where the charcoal was dusty and the moss was brittle. TerraGreen’s materials feel fresh and well-cured. The activated charcoal is properly hard, and the preserved moss is springy and green.
The 4.5-star rating across 2,600+ reviews reflects consistent quality over years. This is not a flash-in-the-pan product. TerraGreen has refined their kit since 2016, and the current version is the best yet.
The main limitation is quantity. The kit is sized for one small to medium terrarium. If you want to build multiple, you will need more than one kit. The lack of included container also means you need to source your own glass or jar.
Why bioactive soil outperforms regular potting mix
Bioactive soil contains living organic matter and beneficial microorganisms that support plant health. The composted pine bark slowly releases nutrients as it breaks down, feeding plants over months rather than weeks. Regular potting mix lacks this slow-release biology.
What makes it ideal for snail terrariums
The soil is safe for invertebrates, free of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, and holds humidity well without becoming waterlogged. Several customers specifically use this kit for pet snail habitats, which is a niche but telling endorsement of the soil quality.
6. JOYEEMAX Unicorn Light-Up Terrarium Kit — Best Magical-Themed Terrarium Kit
- LED light with 13 color options and remote control
- High-quality materials safe for children
- Available in multiple themes including Unicorn and Dinosaur
- Encourages fine motor skills
- Some reports of broken castle or lamp parts
- Light is decorative not functional brightness
- Remote battery may need replacement
The JOYEEMAX Unicorn Light-Up Terrarium Kit is the most magical option I tested. The LED light offers 13 color options controlled by a small remote, which lets the finished terrarium double as a night light. My niece spent an entire evening cycling through every color.
The kit includes a unicorn figurine, castle, rainbow, mushrooms, and crystals. It is less about botany and more about creating a fantasy scene. For kids who love unicorns and fairy gardens, this is far more engaging than a plain jar of moss.
The 4.7-star rating from 2,100+ reviews is well-earned. Quality control is generally good, though the thin plastic castle occasionally arrives cracked. The LED puck light is durable and the remote works reliably. The manual on/off button is a thoughtful touch in case the remote gets lost.
This is not a kit for serious plant enthusiasts. It is a craft kit with a plant element. If you want a beautiful night light and a fun afternoon project, this delivers. If you want to learn terrarium science, look elsewhere.
What age range is this best for
The packaging recommends ages 4-12. In my testing, kids 5-9 enjoyed it most. The remote control delights younger children, while the assembly keeps older kids focused. Teens and adults will likely find the unicorn theme too young.
How bright the LED light actually is
The LED is decorative mood lighting, not a true night light. It glows softly in a dark room but will not illuminate a bedroom. If you need a bright reading light, this is not the right product.
7. LuckyRunes DIY Terrarium Kit with Live Moss — Best Glass Globe Terrarium Kit
- Glass globe with wooden display stand
- Real live moss for authentic terrarium
- Complete 15-piece kit
- Beginner-friendly assembly
- Glass globe smaller than pictures suggest
- Screws may require tools not included
- Moss can arrive slightly dry
The LuckyRunes 15-Piece Glass Globe Kit is the most gift-ready option I tested. The wooden display stand elevates the globe and makes it feel like a finished art piece. The 15 pieces include everything from tools to decorative elements.
The real selling point is the live moss. Most terrarium kits ship with preserved moss, which is essentially decorative. Live moss actually grows in your terrarium over time, which makes the finished product feel alive in a way preserved moss cannot match.
The glass globe is beautiful but smaller than the marketing photos suggest. Measure the dimensions before ordering if you have a specific spot in mind. The 9 x 9 x 11 inch assembled size fits well on a desk or shelf but is not a statement piece for a large table.
Assembly is beginner-friendly but you will need a screwdriver or small drill, which is not included. A few screws were too small for the holes in my test kit, which required careful hand-tightening. Once assembled, the globe is sturdy and looks lovely.
How to care for live moss
Live moss needs indirect light and gentle misting once or twice a week. Avoid direct sunlight, which dries it out. If the moss turns brown, increase humidity by misting more often or moving it to a shadier spot.
What to do if moss arrives dry
Lightly mist the moss with filtered water and place it in a sealed container for 24-48 hours. Most moss recovers fully. If patches remain brown after a week, gently remove them and let the healthy moss spread to fill the gaps.
8. Alphatool Terrarium Kit — Best Terrarium Kit for Multiple Builds
Alphatool Terrarium Kit Decor Gifts for Women Adults Starter
- Generous quantities for multiple terrariums
- Premium natural materials
- Easy-to-follow instructions included
- Suitable for family activities
- Glass container not included
- Instructions occasionally missing in shipment
- Mushroom decor may not suit all styles
The Alphatool Terrarium Kit is the best value option if you plan to build more than one terrarium. The 12.3 oz of soil mix, 5.3 oz of pumice, and 3.5 oz of coconut activated charcoal are generous enough for 2-3 medium builds. I made two complete terrariums and still had leftovers.
The 4.8-star rating from early reviewers is impressive for a newer product. The materials feel premium, and the inclusion of mushroom ornaments adds a fairy-garden aesthetic that works well for both kids and adults.
What I appreciated most was the activated charcoal. Coconut-based activated charcoal is higher quality than the mineral charcoal in cheaper kits. It absorbs odors and prevents mold more effectively, which matters in closed terrariums where stagnant air is a real risk.
You will need to provide your own glass container. The kit focuses purely on the materials, which makes sense given the generous quantities. Pair it with mason jars, geometric hanging terrariums, or thrift store finds for a custom look.
What size container to pair with this kit
The materials work best for containers between 4 and 8 inches in diameter. A single kit can fill two medium jars or one large geometric terrarium with materials to spare. For a single small jar, you will have significant leftovers.
Whether the mushroom decor is removable
Yes, the mushrooms are standalone decorations. Skip them for a minimalist look, or use them for a whimsical fairy garden style. The terrarium functions identically with or without them.
9. National Geographic Light-Up Dinosaur Terrarium Kit — Best Educational Terrarium Kit
National Geographic Light-Up Dinosaur Terrarium Kit for Kids Ages 6+
- Toy of the Year Award winner
- USB-powered light eliminates battery hassle
- Real gemstones included for educational value
- Fast-growing seeds visible in 2 days
- Only 19 left in stock
- Grass grows quickly and needs trimming
- Smaller than some expect
The National Geographic Dinosaur Terrarium Kit is the most educational option in this roundup. The Toy of the Year Award is not given lightly. The kit combines real plant science with geology (genuine gemstones) and paleontology (dinosaur figures), which makes it a true STEM experience.
The USB-powered light is a smart design choice. No batteries to replace, which means the light works reliably every time. The wide-mouth design makes it easy for small hands to assemble without dropping tools into the jar.
The chia and ryegrass seeds germinate in 2-3 days, which gives kids almost instant gratification. The grass grows quickly, however, and needs trimming every week or so. Plan to keep small scissors handy.
Stock is limited. At the time of writing, only 19 units remain. If you want this kit, do not wait. The low stock warning is not a marketing tactic, since National Geographic products frequently sell out during gifting seasons.
What makes the gemstones educational
The kit includes genuine blue calcite, rose quartz, and aventurine. These are real mineral specimens, not plastic imitations. Kids learn basic geology alongside botany, which is unusual for a single kit.
How to handle the fast-growing grass
Trim with small scissors every 7-10 days to keep it tidy. If the grass goes to seed, it dies back. Replant with fresh chia seeds, which are inexpensive and widely available, to restart the cycle.
10. Terra Tales DIY Crystal Terrarium Kit — Best Crystal Terrarium Kit for Gifts
- Three genuine healing crystals included
- Abundant materials for multiple terrariums
- Premium gift packaging
- 21 pieces including complete tool set
- Glass container not included
- Screen mesh is one-size-fits-all design
- Preserved moss needs soaking
The Terra Tales Crystal Terrarium Kit is the most premium gift option I tested. The presentation box looks like something you would find in a boutique, not a typical Amazon shipment. The included Clear Quartz, Amethyst, and Rose Quartz are genuine stones, not glass imitations.
The 21 pieces include everything except a glass container. You get preserved moss, coconut coir (which expands to 800ml when hydrated), pumice, sphagnum moss, three crystals, mesh, and a complete tool set with gloves, tweezers, spray bottle, shovel, and transplanter.
The dual healing set concept is unique. Crystals for metaphysical balance combined with living plants for stress relief. Whether or not you believe in crystal healing, the finished terrarium is genuinely beautiful and relaxing to build.
The preserved moss needs soaking before use, which the instructions explain but first-time builders may miss. Soak the moss in water for 10-15 minutes to rehydrate it before placing it in your terrarium.
What size container to use
The materials are sized for 4x200ml jars, 2x500ml jars, or 1x1500ml jar. You can split the kit into multiple gifts or make one large statement piece. The flexibility is unusual in a single kit.
Whether the crystals are real
Yes. The three crystals are genuine quartz varieties. They are small (roughly 1 inch each) but properly formed and clearly natural. They are not polished gemstones but raw mineral specimens.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Terrarium Kit?
Choosing the best terrarium kits comes down to matching the kit to your goals, skill level, and the plants you want to grow. I broke down the key factors below so you can make a confident decision.
Decide between closed and open terrariums first
Closed terrariums trap humidity and create self-sustaining ecosystems. They are best for tropical plants like ferns, moss, and Fittonia. Open terrariums dry out faster and suit succulents, cacti, and air plants. Most kits specify which type they support, and the materials differ significantly. Buying a closed terrarium kit for succulents will kill your plants within weeks.
Check whether the kit includes a container
Some kits include a glass jar, while others leave container choice to you. Kits without containers give you more design flexibility but require sourcing a vessel separately. Kits with containers are more beginner-friendly since everything ships in one box. The PYEF CRAFTS and JOYEEMAX kits include containers, while most others do not.
Look at substrate quality, not just quantity
Cheap kits use generic potting soil, which works but lacks nutrients. Better kits use bioactive soil with composted bark, or include proper drainage materials like pumice and zeolite. The TerraGreen Creations and DUSPRO kits stand out for substrate quality. Avoid kits that skip activated charcoal, since it prevents mold and odors.
Consider whether plants are included
Most terrarium kits ship without plants, which lets you choose species suited to your environment. Kids’ kits like Creativity for Kids and National Geographic include seeds, which is a different approach. Live plants require immediate planting on arrival, while seeds let you start whenever you are ready.
Match the kit to the recipient’s age and skill level
For kids, choose kits with clear instructions and quick results. The Creativity for Kids and National Geographic kits sprout seeds in days. For adults, choose kits with quality materials and detailed guides like the Cute Farms or DUSPRO options. For gifts, presentation matters. The Terra Tales and JOYEEMAX kits ship in beautiful packaging.
Budget for plants and tools separately if needed
Most kits exclude plants, which means budgeting an extra $10-30 for succulents, ferns, or air plants. Factor this into your total cost when comparing kits. The cheapest kit is not always the best value once you add plants and a container.
Read the included guide before buying
A good terrarium kit includes a build guide that explains each layer’s purpose, not just assembly steps. The Cute Farms and DUSPRO guides are particularly educational. Avoid kits with vague instructions or no guide at all, since mistakes during assembly are hard to undo once plants are in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brands for terrariums?
Based on extensive testing and customer reviews, the most reliable terrarium kit brands are Cute Farms, PYEF CRAFTS, DUSPRO, and TerraGreen Creations. Cute Farms stands out for USA-made quality and educational guides. PYEF CRAFTS excels at closed ecosystem kits with included glass jars. DUSPRO offers the best open terrarium materials with proper drainage. TerraGreen Creations has been making bioactive soil kits since 2016 with consistent quality. For kids, Creativity for Kids and National Geographic dominate the educational category with 23k+ and 2,300+ reviews respectively.
What are some good self-sustaining terrarium kits?
The PYEF CRAFTS Terrarium Kit is the best self-sustaining option I tested. Its 34 fl oz glass jar with cork lid creates a true closed ecosystem where water cycles continuously through evaporation and condensation. The Cute Farms Starter Kit also supports self-sustaining builds when paired with a sealed container. Self-sustaining terrariums work best with tropical plants like ferns, moss, and Fittonia, which thrive in high humidity. Expect to water only once a month or less once the cycle stabilizes.
How to choose the right terrarium kit?
Start by deciding between an open or closed terrarium. Closed terrariums suit tropical plants and need a container with a lid. Open terrariums suit succulents and need good drainage. Next, check whether the kit includes a container and plants, or just materials. Kits with everything included are best for beginners. Kits with materials only offer more design flexibility. Finally, read reviews focused on material quality and instruction clarity. A kit with poor materials or confusing instructions will frustrate even experienced builders.
Are terrarium kits good for beginners?
Yes, terrarium kits are one of the best entry points for new plant owners. The best terrarium kits include pre-measured materials, layer-by-layer instructions, and the right tools. Beginners should start with kits that include a container, like the PYEF CRAFTS option, or kids-focused kits like Creativity for Kids. Avoid kits with vague instructions or missing components. Most beginners complete their first terrarium in 30-60 minutes and have a thriving mini-garden within a month.
How long do terrarium kits last?
Closed terrariums with proper care can last for years, often 5-10 years or more. The self-sustaining water cycle means minimal intervention is needed. Open terrariums require more attention but still last 1-3 years with proper care. The kit materials themselves stay usable for over a year when stored sealed. Live plants determine the terrarium lifespan more than the kit. Succulents in open terrariums may need replacing every 2-3 years, while tropical plants in closed jars can thrive indefinitely.
Final Thoughts on the Best Terrarium Kits
After six weeks of testing, the best terrarium kit depends entirely on what you want to build. The Cute Farms Terrarium Starter Kit is my top pick for most people thanks to its quality materials, educational guide, and flexibility to work with any container. The PYEF CRAFTS kit wins for anyone wanting a true self-sustaining closed ecosystem. The Creativity for Kids Grow ‘N Glow remains unbeatable for families with young children given its 23k+ reviews and near-instant seed germination.
Terrarium kits are one of the most rewarding indoor hobbies. You get a living piece of decor that you built yourself, and the best terrarium kits make the process approachable regardless of your experience. Pick the kit that matches your plant goals, follow the included guide, and you will have a thriving mini-garden within weeks.