Why Grow Miniature Plants?

Over the years, my house, porch, and garden have been happy homes for all sorts of plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees. These have ranged from the tropical to the evergreen, and everything in between. At times, my family members and friends have asked me, “Why do you grow fairy garden plants-- specifically?” They wonder why I do not just stick with “life-size” plants, especially because miniature plants and trees are so unique, with their own needs. And I talk about them all the time, so they seem to require plenty of care-right?

In truth, miniature plants are easy to care for, decidedly cute, and extremely satisfying to grow. After I purchase a new miniature plant from my favorite greenhouse, grow it to its mature size, and watch it thrive, I feel a keen sense of accomplishment. And then, because miniature plants are, well, miniature—I can do it all again! Miniature plants save space, but still offer worlds of color and life.

For those that consider themselves collectors, miniature trees and plants also provide an entry point into the unique world of plant collecting. I have recently been reading Tiny Plants, by author and horticulturist Leslie F. Halleck. Turning the pages, I am entranced by the big, bright photos of small-statured, yet hugely amazing miniature plants. It is hard not to fall in love with variety after variety as Leslie describes them and offers up images of her own plants. From delicate foliage and bright flowers to carnivorous plants and semi-aquatic wonders, Leslie opens readers’ eyes to the joy of collecting and caring for miniature plants.

No matter how much room you have inside or outside your home, you probably have enough space for a tiny plant or two (or three, or four, or more…). In Tiny Plants, Leslie demonstrates how easy it can be to grow miniature plants in glass vessels, as Zen gardens, on windowsills, and more. I love that the size and scope of miniature plants allow me to incorporate them into my life and lifestyle, whether that means building out a complex fairyhood in my backyard or simply adding some potted plants to my bookshelf display.

Leslie ensures readers that petite plants grow across all geographical zones. That means, no matter where you live, you can get in on the fun of miniature gardening! Everyone has their own entry point. For some, it is the world of fairy gardens, gnomes, pixies, fairy houses, and miniature accessories. These teeny-tiny worlds awaken the child inside each of us and spread magic wherever they are planted.

For others, terrariums or Bonsai trees are the first exposure to miniature trees, succulents, cactuses, and other miniature plants. Glass-enclosed miniature gardens and carefully trimmed trees are full of little details and unique plants. If you have ever considered growing miniature plants under glass, like small, intimate artworks, you need to pick up a copy of Tiny Plants.

This year, Leslie F. Halleck’s celebration of miniature plants and bite-sized botany has me recommitted to the wonderful world of extra-small (and extra-cute) plants. I close the book feeling inspired, excited, and ultimately, better prepared to nurture the miniature plants in my own fairy gardens and containers. Spoiler alert: The book has also opened my eyes to new varieties, which means plants added to my shopping and to-be-planted lists! Oh, well. When it comes to collecting miniature plants, growth, in all its forms, is always good to see.

Happy Gardening!

Miniature Gardening' offers miniature plants, accessories, fairies, garden tools & dollhouse furniture to create enchanting miniature landscapes for containers or your yard. Story telling and imaginary fairy garden from 'Miniature Gardening' bring the playful kid out in all of us. Filled with intrigue and mystique each little miniature garden scene you create is a snapshot of such a dream.