The fairy garden craze is sweeping the nation and for good reason. Fairy gardens, also known as miniature gardens, are popular with people of all ages. Miniature gardening can be enjoyed by anyone, even by apartment dwellers and those without yards. If you haven’t heard of this captivating and delightful gardening diversion, you’re in for a treat.
 
What is a Fairy Garden?
 
A fairy garden is a tiny, whimsical ecosphere filled with magic and make-believe. It’s a study in nature on a manageable and affordable scale. It’s something you can create and tend to when the seasons change or limited space make outdoor gardening impossible. Best of all, it’s a way for families to create and nurture something together - teaching everyone a little something about nature and the process of creating an enchanting environment using only your imagination.
 
What Do I Need to Get Started?
 
First, choose a theme for your fairy garden. Some popular themes include beaches, English cottages, wildlife safaris and (of course) a playground for the fairies. Choose a container and sketch out your garden on paper. Include features like paths, ponds or hills. Fill your container with soil and add pebbles and other interesting treasures. Next, visit your local garden shop to select plants to complement your design. Herbs like thyme, dill, rosemary and tarragon are popular choices because of their small scale. Mosses, baby’s tears and miniature ivy are also often included in fairy gardens You can even add tiny benches or chairs, so the fairies have a place to sit!
 
Where Should I Put My Fairy Garden?
 
The best thing about fairy gardens is that you can build them anywhere. Some people set aside a portion of their “mundane garden” or flowerbed for a miniature version dedicated to the fairies. However, some of the best tiny gardens are created in containers. Some imaginative gardeners use old suitcases, dresser drawers, an old, rusty wagon, or even a birdbath. Containers are ideal because you can move your fairy garden inside during the cold months and back out to porch or patio when spring returns.
 
When it comes to miniature gardens, your imagination has no limits. Many enchanting examples can be found online but the fun of fairy gardens is coming up with your own design. You and your family will spend many happy hours together, engaged in creating and caring for your fairy gardens.