Miniature Gardens are scaled-down, tiny landscapes in containers. They use dwarf plants (like mosses, small conifers and succulents) and wee accessories (tiny paths, furniture and pretties) to create realistic scenes. Miniature gardens are often referred to as terrariums or fairy gardens. They’re perfect for both indoor and outdoor decor, focusing on little proportions or scaled elements. Keep these tips in mind when creating or shopping for  miniature gardens.

The four components to keep in mind when creating or buying miniature gardens are: containers, plants, accessories and hardscape.

First, CONTAINERS. Choose a shallow pot, tray, teacup glass bottle or formal terrarium.

Next, PLANTS. To keep to scale, dwarf plants are needed. Consider conifers such as pines and junipers, small ferns, ground covers and succulents.

Then, ACCESSORIES: Little touches that tell a story while defining the scale of your project is key. Miniature figurines (like animals and fairies), furniture and tiny lighting work well.

Finally, HARDSCAPE. Think about the smallest gravel or sand for creating pathways. Twigs for fences and pebbles in place of rocks or to define little ponds make sense, too. 

Popular Styles when Creating Miniature Gardens

Fairy Gardens: Perhaps the most-popular style, fairy gardens focus on creating enchanting, whimsical scenes often adding tiny figures such as gnomes, magical creatures and fairies. These designs commonly boast little houses, pathways and decor. A terrific source for miniature fairies, animals, houses, accessories and botanicals is the Fairy Garden Store.

Terrariums: Self-contained, miniature gardens in clear glass containers create a self-sustaining, humid ecosystem for small plants. There are two types of terrariums: closed which are tropical, high humidity habitats for ferns and mosses and open: for arid plants such as cacti and succulents. Terrariums require minimal watering due to recycled moisture but need indirect light and occasional airing to prevent cold.  They are beautiful and offer low-maintenance indoor gardens. To purchase pre-made terrariums, check out PlantPico.com, or create your own with this all-inclusive kit from Groovy Growing.

Succulent Gardens: These little cuties, driven by the popularity of cacti and succulents are more plant-focused and modern. They utilise a combination of low-maintenance, colourful succulents in visually appealing arrangements, usually with only one or two simple accessories. Gazing balls and crystals are good choices. Coupled with the dramatic architecture of the plants themselves, these make for a clean, sophisticated look.

Pro Tip: Scale is key. Match your accessories to the same scale to maintain realism.