Tools and Materials
Gravel
Horticultural charcoal
Wide, low-sided container (without a drainage hole)
Plants
Potting soil
Decorative objects
Moss or sand
Dish Garden How-To
- Sprinkle less than an inch of gravel (for drainage around roots) and charcoal (to keep small amounts of standing moisture fresh) over the bottom of container.
- Unpot your plants, and position them as desired, keeping in mind that you are trying to create a miniature landscape. Surround the root-balls with soil, leaving a thinner layer over the nonplanted gravel areas.
- Add decorative items (shells, stones, figurines, or other collected objects), and tuck these in with a top-dressing of moss or sand so that there is no bare soil showing.
- Moisten your garden with a watering can or in the sink. Let it soak for a few minutes, then carefully tip out the excess water while holding the arrangement in place with your other hand. Repeat this procedure once a week or when the soil feels dry. Make sure your garden never sits in excess water.
- Given bright but indirect sunlight, most houseplants will thrive for months or even years in containers. But replace any overgrown or sickly plants as needed.
