When spring rolls around, many of us Londoners have a desire to put our green fingers to use. But, for those of us who don’t have a garden, there’s a new way to get your hands dirty, and you’ll leave with a living piece of decor for your home.
There’s a workshop in the city that lets you craft a tiny, self-contained ecosystem. This expert-led session is designed for everyone, from total beginners to seasoned plant parents, offering a chance to switch off and make something special. The experience takes place at Corner Corner in Canada Water, a space suited for a hands-on session where you can learn the secrets to building a long-lasting terrarium.
Craft your own miniature ecosystem
The first step is choosing from trays of diverse plants. You get to pick three for your terrarium, with a choice between a collection of hardy succulents or a variety of non-succulent tropical plants. Whether you’re drawn to spiky cacti, delicate ferns, or colourful nerve plants, there’s something to suit every aesthetic.
Once you’ve selected your plants, the host, Will, expertly guides you through the entire layering process. His passion for plants is infecticious and he calmly explains why each layer matters, from the foundational pebbles for drainage to the activated charcoal, soil, and decorative moss. His guidance ensures your terrarium has the best possible chance of thriving.
Assembling the terrarium is a wonderfully mindful process. Carefully placing each plant and arranging stones can be rewarding. You can even grab a drink from the bar to enjoy while you work.
An affordable and rewarding activity
One of the most impressive things about this workshop is the value it offers. The entire session lasts 90 minutes and for just £35, everything you need is included. That price covers the glass vessel, your choice of three plants, all the soil, stones, moss, and the use of specialised tools. Our Secret London videographer, Tom, said the experience was “genuinely one of the best value activities we’ve come across.”
This is a great after-work activity to do solo or with friends. You leave not only with new skills but also with your very own little plant baby to brighten up your desk or living room. Workshops run on selected evenings and weekends, and you can find the full schedule online.
