2 Pc British Soldier Lichen Cladonia for Terrariums Fairy Gardens Bonsai

(2)pieces, about 1" in diameter. 

Harvested direct by us here at Appalachian Emporium.

Your order will include our Moss Care Sheet. We ship only fresh lichen, 100% natural, organic, no pesticides or chemicals ever used.

It will be dampened, not wet, with spring water native to the area.  Special care is taken to prevent contamination of the specimen.

British Soldier Lichen, Cladonia cristatella. It's only about ¼-inch high (6 mm). In this common lichen the red spore-producing reproductive structures are clearly visible. The lichen's name, Cladonia cristatella, is actually the name of the fungus. The alga species in the lichen is known as Trebouxia erici. However, it's customary to name a lichen after its fungal part, so the whole lichen is known as Cladonia cristatella. British Soldiers are usually found on decaying wood, soil, mossy logs, tree bases, and stumps. They help break down old wood and put nutrients back into the soil where they can be used by plants. Lichens also take nitrogen from the air and put it into the soil so plants can use it.

Lichen

These do not require any special planting. Simply place on top of your soil and mist with a spring water (or non-chlorinated) every few days. These do best when kept out of direct sunlight, especially during the hotter hours of the day.  Clean air is essential for these to live. They will not thrive in a smoky or contaminated environment.  Also note that these grow at a very slow rate, most only 1/4-1/2" per year, if that. 

Moss

Keep moss damp. Moisten every 3-5 days if inside.  Avoid full direct sun for more than 6 hours. Cooler morning sun provides the best results, with shade in the heat of the day.

Tip: Rain water can be caught in a vessel and put into a NEW CLEAN spray bottle for natural watering.

Succulent Care

Succulents do best in well-drained soil. The addition of grit or sharp sand will improve porosity & drainage.  After planting, water once a week. New plants should be well established in 5-6 weeks.

Visit the Cactus Succulent Society for very detailed care information. A great resource!

Mini-Terrarium Instructions

Place a small clump of moss in container first, then place the smaller lichen as preferred to fill in or add detail. Tweezers or a skewer can be helpful in placing and arranging. Water well then add a few drops of spring water (or non-chlorinated) every few days.

Seedling Care

Depending on the time of year, your seedlings may or may not have leaves. Care of the roots is most important at this time, keep them moist until time for planting.