What Is A Glass Cloche And How Do You Use It?

If you have been looking for a new, chic way to decorate, display and amplify your desserts, start seedlings off right, or keep your most precious plants safe in a mini-greenhouse, there's one item that can help you do all of that and more. It can be used in a variety of styles, too, like the newly popular style of cottagecore, the ever-trendy boho chic, and even modern and contemporary styles. So what is this versatile item? The glass cloche.

Per Michigan State University, a glass cloche is a bell-shaped glass cover that is used to protect and display small plants, flowers, or other decorative items. The site says the cloche was invented in 1623 to protect small plants from frost. The Cambridge Dictionary says the word "cloche" is French for "bell," which describes the shape of the cover. The cloche sits on a base, which can be made of wood, metal, or other materials. But how exactly do you use a glass cloche?

Per Crate&Barrel, the glass cloche was originally used to nurture seedlings or propagate plant cuttings. One of the main benefits of using a glass cloche is that it creates humidity inside the glass, according to the Laidback Gardener, which turns it into a mini greenhouse environment for plants. This makes it great for those plants that need protection from harsh weather conditions or pests, and it means that you can use it to start seedlings earlier indoors.

To use the cloche, simply place the plant on the base and then put the cover over the top. The base should be positioned on a level surface so that the glass does not slide off. You should position the cloche in a space that gets enough sunlight to create the humidity the plant needs to grow. Since the lid lifts off easily, you can effortlessly remove it to water your live plants and trim dead leaves.

Modern-day glass cloches can be used for more than plants, though. Today, they are often utilized to create a striking display for cupcakes, scented candles, or shells and rocks. The cloche can also be used to smoke a cocktail. According to Fatherly, you just put a cocktail under the glass, then fill it with smoke by using a smoking gun or simply by igniting the flammable ingredient on an inflammable surface beside the glass before lowering the cloche onto its stand. This allows the chamber to fill with smoke, which then enters the cocktail glass to add flavor.

A glass cloche is a beautiful and functional accessory that is easy to use and comes in many different shapes, sizes, and materials. They can add a touch of elegance and charm to any space, and you can step up your hosting game by using them to display cupcakes or make fancy smoked cocktails that are sure to wow your guests.