How to Care for Terrarium Plants

1. Introduction

Terrarium plants have become a popular choice for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts due to their unique beauty and ease of care. Whether placed in a living room, office, or bedroom, these miniature indoor ecosystems provide a peaceful touch of greenery that brightens any space. Their popularity has surged because of their ability to thrive in small environments, making them ideal for urban dwellers or anyone with limited space.

Caring for terrarium plants offers a variety of benefits, such as:

• Low Maintenance: Terrariums are self-sustaining, requiring minimal watering and care, making them perfect for those with busy lifestyles or beginner plant owners.
• Aesthetic Value: The lush green plants within a terrarium enhance the aesthetic of any room, creating a calming atmosphere with their natural beauty.
• Indoor Air Quality: Many terrarium plants are known to purify the air by filtering out toxins, making your indoor space healthier and more refreshing.

In this blog, we will cover:

1. Choosing the Right Plants: How to select the perfect plants for your terrarium based on light and moisture requirements.
2. Setting Up Your Terrarium: A step-by-step guide to creating a beautiful and functional terrarium.
3. Maintenance and Care Tips: How to keep your plants healthy and thriving with proper care techniques.
4. Common Issues and Solutions: Troubleshooting common problems such as mold or overwatering.
5. Decorating Your Terrarium: Creative ideas for styling and personalizing your mini garden.
6. Frequently Asked Questions: Answers to common queries about terrarium plant care.

With a few simple tips and a little creativity, you'll be on your way to building and maintaining a thriving terrarium that adds beauty to your space while providing all the benefits of having indoor plants!

2. What Are Terrarium Plants?

Terrarium plants are small, hardy plants that thrive in controlled, enclosed environments, such as glass containers or jars. These plants are well-suited for terrariums because they require minimal space and can tolerate the conditions of being in a sealed or semi-sealed container. The main appeal of terrarium plants is their ability to adapt to the limited space, providing a unique and attractive display of greenery indoors.

There are two main types of terrariums:

• Open Terrariums: These are terrariums with no lid, allowing for more airflow and a drier environment. They are ideal for plants that prefer drier conditions, such as succulents and cacti.
• Closed Terrariums: These have a sealed environment that maintains higher humidity levels, creating a tropical climate. They are perfect for plants that thrive in moist, humid conditions, like ferns and mosses.

When choosing plants for your terrarium, it’s important to consider the type of terrarium you have, as well as the plants’ light, moisture, and temperature requirements. Here are a few popular plants that do well in terrariums:

• Ferns: Ferns, such as the Boston Fern or Maidenhair Fern, thrive in the humid environment of a closed terrarium, providing lush greenery.
• Mosses: Mosses are great for adding texture and greenery, and they thrive in the humid conditions of a closed terrarium.
• Air Plants: Air plants (Tillandsia) don’t require soil and thrive in open terrariums with good airflow.

By selecting the right combination of plants, you can create a beautiful and balanced mini ecosystem inside your terrarium.

3. Choosing the Right Plants for Your Terrarium

Choosing the right plants for your terrarium is crucial to ensure they thrive and create a balanced, healthy environment. When selecting plants, you need to consider three key factors: light, moisture, and size. These factors will help you determine which plants are best suited for your terrarium setup and ensure that they grow well.

• Light: Terrarium plants need appropriate lighting, whether it’s natural or artificial. Some plants prefer bright, indirect light, while others thrive in low-light conditions. Make sure to place your terrarium in a spot that matches the plants' light requirements.
• Moisture: Different plants have varying moisture needs. Closed terrariums retain moisture and provide a humid environment, perfect for plants that require more humidity, like ferns and mosses. Open terrariums, on the other hand, are better for plants like succulents that require less moisture.
• Size: Consider the size of both the terrarium and the plants. Some plants, like ferns and ivy, can grow quite large, while others, like air plants or moss, stay small and compact, making them ideal for smaller containers.

Here are a few popular plants that are commonly used in terrariums:

• Ferns: Boston ferns, maidenhair ferns, and bird’s nest ferns thrive in humid, low-light environments.
• Ivy: English ivy is a popular choice for its trailing vines and ability to grow in a variety of light conditions.
• Moss: Mosses such as sheet moss and cushion moss are perfect for adding texture and greenery to closed terrariums.
• Air Plants: Air plants (Tillandsia) are unique because they don’t need soil and can be placed in open terrariums or on decorative objects.

When choosing your plants, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of different types:

Plant Type	Pros	Cons
Ferns	Great for humid environments, lush foliage, easy to care for in closed terrariums.	Needs consistent moisture, can outgrow small containers.
Ivy	Fast-growing, great for trailing, versatile in light conditions.	Can become invasive, requires trimming to keep it under control.
Moss	Thrives in high humidity, adds texture, easy to maintain.	May not do well in low light, can become waterlogged if overwatered.
Air Plants	No soil required, adaptable to different environments, low maintenance.	Needs good airflow, may require occasional misting depending on humidity.

By understanding the needs of each plant and matching them to your terrarium’s environment, you can create a thriving, balanced ecosystem that will flourish for years to come.

4. Selecting the Ideal Terrarium Container

When creating a terrarium, the container plays a crucial role in the overall health and aesthetic of your mini ecosystem. The right container not only enhances the beauty of your plants but also ensures they have the appropriate environment to thrive. There are several types of containers to choose from, each offering different benefits for plant growth.

• Glass Jars: Simple and classic, glass jars are perfect for small, closed terrariums. They provide excellent visibility of your plants and help retain moisture, making them ideal for plants that thrive in humid environments.
• Glass Bowls: Larger glass bowls are often used for open terrariums. They allow for better airflow and are great for plants that prefer drier conditions, such as succulents and air plants.
• Geometric Shapes: Geometric glass containers are trendy and provide a modern, stylish look. These are ideal for showcasing plants like air plants or small ferns and mosses, adding a unique touch to your decor.
• Other Containers: You can also use items like fish tanks, vases, or even repurposed objects like teacups or terracotta pots to create your own terrarium. Just ensure the container is transparent to allow for adequate light.

When selecting a container, consider the following factors:

• Size: The container should be large enough to accommodate your plants but not too large to create an overwhelming space. A small container works best for tiny plants, while a larger one is suitable for plants that require more space.
• Shape: Choose a shape that complements your plants and decor. Geometric or cylindrical shapes work well for modern designs, while traditional round or square containers suit classic looks.
• Material: Glass is the most popular material for terrariums, as it allows light to pass through and retains humidity. However, make sure the container is sturdy and easy to clean.

Additionally, ensure that your container allows for proper air circulation and provides the right amount of light and humidity for your plants to flourish.

 

5. Setting Up Your Terrarium: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a terrarium is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to design a miniature garden right in your own home. By following these simple steps, you can create a beautiful and healthy terrarium that will thrive for years. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your own terrarium:

1. Prepare the Container: Start by selecting the container for your terrarium. Clean the container thoroughly to remove any dust or residues. Ensure it’s transparent so your plants can receive proper light.
2. Create a Drainage Layer: The first layer in your terrarium should be a drainage layer to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom and causing root rot. Use small stones, pebbles, or gravel. Aim for a layer that’s about 1 to 2 inches deep, depending on the size of the container.
3. Add Activated Charcoal (if using): Next, add a thin layer of activated charcoal over the drainage layer. This helps to filter the water and keep the terrarium environment fresh by preventing mold and odors.
4. Add Soil Mix (and any additional substrates): Add a layer of soil appropriate for the plants you’ve chosen. For most plants, a standard potting mix will work, but you may need specialized mixes, like cactus or succulent mix, for certain plants. If you have plants that require specific substrates (e.g., moss or orchids), you can add those at this stage.
5. Place Plants Carefully: Start placing your plants in the terrarium. Gently remove them from their pots, shake off excess soil, and make small holes in the soil to place the roots. Arrange the plants so that taller ones are in the back, with smaller plants toward the front. This creates depth and allows all the plants to be visible.
6. Add Decorative Elements: Once your plants are in place, add decorative elements like stones, pebbles, or figurines. These decorative items enhance the overall look of your terrarium and can help balance the natural elements.
7. Arranging Plants: When arranging your plants, think about focal points and height. Place the tallest plants toward the back, while shorter plants should be positioned toward the front for visibility. Consider how the plants will grow and make sure they’re not overcrowded.

Tips for Balance: To ensure both aesthetics and plant care, aim for a well-balanced terrarium. Avoid overcrowding plants, and allow space for them to grow. Ensure that the terrarium has good airflow, and consider leaving enough room for trimming or repotting when needed.

6. Watering Your Terrarium Plants

Proper watering is essential for the health and longevity of your terrarium plants. While terrariums can be more self-sustaining than regular houseplants, they still require careful attention to watering. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to plant stress and other issues like root rot or dehydration. Let’s discuss the key factors to consider and how to ensure proper watering techniques.

• Humidity Level: Closed terrariums maintain their own humidity, creating a self-sustaining environment that doesn’t need frequent watering. Open terrariums, however, are more exposed to the air, and you may need to water them more often to compensate for moisture loss.
• Plant Type: Different plants have different moisture needs. Plants like moss, ferns, and ivy thrive in more humid environments, while succulents and air plants require less water. Knowing the needs of your plants is crucial when determining the right watering schedule.
• Size of Container: Smaller containers tend to dry out more quickly than larger ones, requiring more frequent watering. Larger terrariums hold moisture for longer, so they might need less water overall.

How Often to Water: The frequency of watering depends on several factors, such as humidity, container size, and plant type. Generally, it’s best to water your terrarium once every 2–3 weeks for closed terrariums, and once every week for open terrariums. Always check the moisture level in the soil before watering.

Signs of Overwatering:

• Yellowing leaves
• Foul smell from the soil (indicating root rot)
• Water pooling at the bottom of the container

 

Signs of Underwatering:

• Dry, crispy leaves
• Wilting plants
• Soil pulling away from the sides of the container

 

Watering Tips for Open and Closed Terrariums:

• Closed Terrariums: These require less frequent watering because they create their own humidity. Mist the plants lightly, but avoid soaking the soil. A good rule of thumb is to water them when the soil appears dry.
• Open Terrariums: Open terrariums are exposed to the air, so they lose moisture more quickly. Water them more often, ensuring the soil remains lightly moist, not soggy.

 

7. Light Requirements for Terrarium Plants

Light is one of the most important factors in ensuring the health of your terrarium plants. Without proper lighting, your plants may become leggy, stop growing, or even die. Each plant has its own light requirements, and understanding these will help you position your terrarium in a way that allows your plants to thrive. Let’s explore the different types of light and how to make sure your plants receive the right amount.

• Indirect Light: Most terrarium plants, especially ferns, mosses, and ivies, thrive in indirect light. This means they should be placed near a window but not directly in the path of harsh sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A spot where the light is filtered through curtains or a sheer blind works well.
• Fluorescent Light: Fluorescent bulbs are a great option for terrariums that are placed in areas with limited natural light. They provide a spectrum of light that mimics daylight, encouraging healthy growth. Positioning your terrarium near a fluorescent light for 12–14 hours a day will support plant health.
• Artificial Light: For terrariums placed in darker areas or rooms with no natural light, artificial grow lights can be used. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and provide the right spectrum of light for plant growth. These lights are particularly useful for closed terrariums that require consistent light exposure.

How to Position Your Terrarium:

• Place your terrarium in a location with bright, indirect light for best results.
• If your terrarium is in a room with little natural light, use fluorescent or LED grow lights to supplement it.
• Ensure your terrarium is not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, as this can cause the plants to overheat and dry out.

 

Special Considerations for Low-Light Plants:

• Some plants, such as mosses and certain ferns, are adapted to low-light conditions and can thrive with minimal sunlight.
• For these plants, placing your terrarium in a spot with low to moderate indirect light is ideal.
• If you’re using artificial light, you can reduce the light intensity to cater to the needs of low-light plants.

 

8. Temperature and Humidity Control for Terrariums

Temperature and humidity are crucial for the health of your terrarium plants. These factors help create the right environment for growth and prevent issues like mold, wilting, or stunted growth. By understanding and maintaining the ideal conditions for temperature and humidity, you can ensure that your plants thrive. Let’s explore the best practices for controlling these environmental factors in your terrarium.

• Ideal Temperature Range: Most terrarium plants thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). This temperature range supports plant growth without causing stress or damage. Keep your terrarium away from drafts, heating vents, and air conditioners, as extreme fluctuations can harm your plants.
• Ideal Humidity Range: Humidity is just as important as temperature for terrarium plants. A humidity level between 50% and 80% is ideal for most species. Closed terrariums naturally maintain higher humidity levels, while open terrariums may require a little more attention to keep moisture levels stable.

How to Control Temperature and Humidity:

• Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential, especially in closed terrariums. Open the lid periodically to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent mold buildup. If you have an open terrarium, consider placing it in an area with good airflow to prevent stagnation.
• Location: Choose a location for your terrarium where temperature fluctuations are minimal. A spot near a window that doesn’t receive direct sunlight is ideal for maintaining a stable temperature.
• Misting: In dry environments, misting the plants inside the terrarium can help maintain humidity. Use a spray bottle to lightly mist the plants and soil, but avoid over-wetting the soil, as excessive moisture can lead to mold growth.

 

Tips for Keeping a Healthy Environment:

• Closed Terrariums: These naturally retain moisture, so you may not need to water or mist frequently. However, be sure to open the lid occasionally to allow for air exchange, which prevents excessive humidity buildup.
• Open Terrariums: Open terrariums are more exposed to the air, so they tend to dry out faster. Regular misting and careful monitoring of humidity levels can help keep the plants happy.

 

9. Terrarium Plant Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your terrarium plants healthy and thriving. By paying attention to your plants’ needs and addressing issues promptly, you can ensure they stay vibrant and beautiful. In this section, we’ll cover essential maintenance tasks and provide tips for monitoring and caring for your plants.

• Trimming: Regular trimming is important to keep your plants from becoming overgrown and crowded. Trim any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as any long, leggy growth. This helps maintain the overall aesthetic of the terrarium and encourages healthy, compact growth.
• Cleaning: Periodically clean the interior of your terrarium, including the glass. Dust and debris can accumulate, blocking light and affecting plant health. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe down the glass and remove any excess moisture that could lead to mold or mildew growth.
• Replacing Dead Plants: If a plant dies, it’s essential to remove it promptly. Dead plants can affect the overall health of the terrarium, as decaying matter may attract pests or cause fungal growth.

How to Monitor the Health of Your Plants:

• Regularly check your plants for signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or leggy growth. These can indicate problems with light, watering, or nutrient deficiencies.
• Look out for pests such as aphids or spider mites, which can quickly infest a small space like a terrarium.
• Check for mold or mildew, especially in closed terrariums, which tend to retain more moisture.

 

Tips for Removing Mold or Mildew:

• If you notice mold or mildew, gently remove it by wiping down affected surfaces with a soft cloth or using a cotton swab dipped in a mild soap solution.
• For larger infestations, you may need to remove the affected plant, trim away damaged areas, and improve ventilation by slightly opening the terrarium.
• Regular misting and ensuring proper airflow can help prevent mold and mildew from forming in the first place.

 

Common Terrarium Plant Problems:

• Yellowing Leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or too much direct sunlight. Adjust watering schedules and ensure your plants aren’t getting too much sun.
• Leggy Growth: Plants that are reaching for the light may be placed in a spot with insufficient light. Move your terrarium to a brighter location or consider using artificial light.
• Pests: Keep an eye out for common terrarium pests like aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs. Use organic pest control methods or remove pests manually when you spot them.

 

 

10. Common Problems with Terrarium Plants and How to Fix Them

Even with proper care, terrarium plants can encounter some common issues. Recognizing these problems early and knowing how to fix them will help you keep your plants healthy and vibrant. Below are some of the most frequent issues and practical solutions for each one.

• Overwatering:
  • Problem: Overwatering is one of the most common issues in terrariums. It can cause root rot, mold, and mildew.
  • Solution: Reduce watering frequency. Ensure the drainage layer is functioning properly, and avoid water accumulation at the bottom of the container. For closed terrariums, only mist lightly when needed.
• Mold or Mildew Growth:
  • Problem: Mold and mildew can develop in humid, stagnant environments, especially in closed terrariums.
  • Solution: Improve ventilation by opening the lid periodically. If mold is already present, remove affected plants or leaves, clean the interior with a mild soap solution, and adjust moisture levels. Regular misting and ensuring proper airflow are key to prevention.
• Poor Light Conditions:
  • Problem: Plants in terrariums can suffer from inadequate light, leading to leggy growth or yellowing leaves.
  • Solution: Place your terrarium in a spot with bright, indirect light. If natural light is insufficient, consider adding artificial grow lights to supplement light exposure.
• Pests:
  • Problem: Pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can invade terrariums, harming the plants.
  • Solution: Regularly inspect your plants for pests. Remove pests manually or use an organic insecticidal soap. For larger infestations, consider removing affected plants and treating the others with pest control methods.
• Nutrient Deficiencies:
  • Problem: Plants may exhibit yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or other symptoms of nutrient deficiencies, especially in terrariums with limited soil space.
  • Solution: Apply a light liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can cause additional stress to the plants.

When to Re-pot or Refresh Your Terrarium:

• If plants outgrow the space or become too crowded, it's time to refresh your terrarium by re-potting them into larger containers or thinning out the plants.
• If the plants’ health has declined despite efforts to fix the environmental conditions, it may be time to start fresh with new plants and soil.

 

11. Decorating Your Terrarium

Decorating your terrarium can add a unique and personal touch to your indoor garden. While plants are the focal point, decorative elements like rocks, shells, and miniature figurines can enhance the overall aesthetic. Below are some creative ideas for decorating your terrarium while ensuring that the plants remain healthy and thrive.

• Rocks and Stones:
  • Use small, smooth pebbles or decorative rocks to create natural-looking paths or add texture to the soil surface.
  • Rocks also provide weight and stability, preventing the soil from shifting. Choose rocks that don’t interfere with plant growth or drainage.
• Shells and Natural Elements:
  • For a beach-inspired terrarium, add seashells, driftwood, or sand to create a serene and coastal vibe.
  • Natural materials complement the plants’ natural beauty and offer a visually interesting contrast to the greenery.
• Miniature Figurines:
  • Miniature figurines, like tiny animals, fairies, or houses, can add whimsy and charm to your terrarium. These should be placed thoughtfully to maintain balance and prevent overcrowding.
  • Be sure not to overdo it—too many figurines can overwhelm the plants and reduce the visual impact of the greenery.

Considerations for Aesthetic Balance and Plant Health:

• Ensure that the decorative items don’t block light from reaching the plants, especially if your terrarium is in a space with limited light exposure.
• Balance the placement of decorative elements with the need for airflow, especially in closed terrariums, to prevent mold or mildew growth.
• Avoid overcrowding the terrarium with too many decorative items, as this can make it difficult for plants to grow and absorb nutrients.

 

12. How Often Should You Refresh or Repot Your Terrarium Plants?

Just like any other garden, terrarium plants need regular attention to ensure they remain healthy and thriving. Over time, your terrarium may require refreshing or repotting to maintain the proper environment for the plants. Below are some signs that indicate it’s time to refresh or repot your terrarium plants, along with steps for doing so.

• Signs that your terrarium needs refreshing:
  • Overgrown plants: If the plants have outgrown the terrarium, it may be time to trim them back or repot them in a larger container.
  • Compacted soil: Over time, the soil can become compacted, which reduces its ability to drain water and provide nutrients to the plants. This is a sign that it may need to be replaced.
  • Stagnant growth or unhealthy plants: If your plants are showing signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves, mold, or wilting, it could mean the environment is no longer suitable.
• When and how to repot your plants:
  • Repot your plants when they’ve outgrown their container or when the soil has become depleted of nutrients.
  • To repot, carefully remove the plant from the container, loosen the roots, and place it in a new container with fresh soil. Be sure the new container has adequate drainage.
• How to refresh the environment:
  • Cleaning: Gently clean the inside of the terrarium container to remove any dirt, algae, or debris. A soft cloth or sponge works best.
  • Removing old plants: Remove any dead or unhealthy plants and replace them with fresh ones to rejuvenate the terrarium.
  • Replacing soil: If the soil has become compacted or nutrient-depleted, replace it with fresh, well-draining soil suited to your plants’ needs.

 

13. Pros and Cons of Terrarium Gardening

Terrarium gardening offers a unique and enjoyable way to grow plants indoors, but like any gardening method, it comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. Below is a table outlining the pros and cons of terrarium gardening:

Pros	Cons
Low maintenance for small spaces	Limited space for plant growth
Great for beginners	Requires proper light and humidity
Enhances indoor décor	Risk of mold in closed terrariums
Can be therapeutic and calming	Potential for plant overcrowding
No need for frequent watering	Regular maintenance required
Can purify indoor air	Closed terrariums can get too humid

While terrariums offer numerous benefits such as being low-maintenance and great for small spaces, there are some challenges, such as managing humidity levels and space limitations. However, with proper care and attention, these issues can be managed effectively.

14. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Are there any plants that shouldn't be used in terrariums?

  Certain plants may not be suitable for terrariums due to their size, light, or moisture needs. For example:

  • Large plants: Plants like trees or large shrubs that need a lot of space will outgrow a terrarium quickly.
  • Sun-loving plants: Plants that require direct sunlight may not thrive in the low-light environment of a terrarium.
  • Water-loving plants: Some plants need more water than a terrarium can provide, leading to mold or decay.

   

• Can I use artificial plants in my terrarium?

  Yes, you can use artificial plants, but there are pros and cons to consider:

  • Pros: Low maintenance, no need for watering or light, and they can look very realistic.
  • Cons: They don’t contribute to air purification, and they lack the natural growth and beauty that live plants offer.

   

• How do I prevent mold in my closed terrarium?

  To prevent mold:

  • Ensure proper air circulation by slightly opening the lid occasionally.
  • Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can promote mold growth.
  • Remove dead leaves promptly to reduce the organic matter that can foster mold.

   

• How can I tell if my terrarium plants are getting too much or too little light?

  Signs of light stress include:

  • Too much light: Yellowing or browning leaves, leaf scorch, or faded color.
  • Too little light: Leggy growth, pale leaves, or slow growth.

   

• Can I add fish or other creatures to my terrarium?

  Yes, small creatures like fish, snails, or insects can be added, but be mindful of their needs:

  • Ensure the animals are compatible with the plants and that the environment is suitable for them.
  • Avoid adding creatures that may overpopulate the terrarium or disrupt plant growth.

   

• How do I clean my terrarium plants?

  To clean your plants:

  • Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the leaves to remove dust or dirt.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the leaves.
  • For stubborn dirt, use a small brush to gently clean hard-to-reach areas.

   

By addressing these common questions, you can ensure your terrarium remains a thriving and healthy environment for both plants and any creatures you may wish to include.

 

Additional Resources

Organic Seeds for Home Gardening

Gardening FAQs for Beginners

Best Flowering Plants for Bees