Quick Rules
- Keep it sealed. The cork keeps humidity in and desert air out. Open only if you must add a few drops of water.
- Light: Bright indirect light is perfect. No direct sun or hot windowsills.
- No fertilizer ever. Moss prefers lean, clean water and calm air.
- Hands off the landscape. Avoid pressing the moss or shifting the cork bark.
- Minimal trinkets. Extra openings risk drying the jar; if you add anything, do it once and re-seal firmly.
Watering (Only If Needed)
Your jar should cycle a light mist of condensation in the morning/evening and look fresh and green. If it looks dry and dull for several days, or there’s no condensation at all:
- Gently pull the cork lid to open.
- Add 2–10 drops of unchlorinated water (distilled or RO). Aim at the cork bark, not directly on the moss.
- Wipe the rim, re-seat the cork snugly, then leave in indirect light.
Tip: If using tap water, let it sit uncovered 24–48 hours to dissipate chlorine (or use a water conditioner).
Placement & Environment
- Distance from window: 3–6 ft from a bright window works well; under a grow light, keep ~12–18" away.
- Temperature: Room temps are ideal (≈ 60–78°F / 16–25°C). Avoid heat sources and vents.
- Do not shake. The ecosystem is tiny; jostling compacts the moss and soil.
Troubleshooting
- Moss looks pale/dry: Add a few drops of distilled water and re-seal. Improve indirect light.
- Too much condensation (drips): Crack the cork briefly (30–60 sec) to vent, then re-seal. Move slightly farther from light/heat.
- Mold fuzz on wood or charcoal: Vent briefly, wipe the inside of the glass only if needed, and reduce light intensity a touch. Most mild biofilm stabilizes on its own.
- Cork feels loose: Reseat firmly. If the cork no longer seals, swap for a snug cork of the same size to prevent drying.
- Debris on glass: Clean the outside only. Avoid opening for routine dusting.