How to Make a Terrarium

1. Introduction

A terrarium is a self-sustaining miniature ecosystem that is typically enclosed in a glass container. It is a beautiful way to showcase plants and create a small, low-maintenance garden indoors. Terrariums come in all shapes and sizes, from small desktop versions to larger ones that can serve as a stunning centerpiece in a room.

The concept of terrariums dates back to the early 19th century. The first terrariums, often referred to as "Wardian cases," were created by British botanist Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward. He accidentally discovered that plants could thrive in enclosed glass containers when he placed a fern in a glass box to protect it from insects. This idea quickly spread, and soon terrariums became popular among plant enthusiasts and the general public.

Creating a terrarium is not only a fun project, but it also offers many rewards. It's a way to add greenery to your home, purify the air, and reduce stress. Additionally, making a terrarium allows you to express your creativity as you design and arrange the plants and decorative elements inside. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a beginner, making a terrarium is a fun and fulfilling hobby that requires minimal care while offering maximum satisfaction.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the materials you need and the process of creating your own terrarium. Here’s an overview of what we’ll cover:

• Materials Needed: The essential items you’ll require to build your terrarium, including the container, soil, plants, and decorative elements.
• Types of Terrariums: Different types of terrariums and their ideal plant choices.
• Creating the Terrarium: Step-by-step instructions for assembling your terrarium from start to finish.
• Care and Maintenance: Tips on how to take care of your terrarium to ensure your plants thrive.
• Creative Ideas: Inspiration for adding personal touches to your terrarium design.
• Common Problems: Troubleshooting tips for handling common terrarium issues.

By the end of this blog, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to create and care for your very own terrarium, bringing a little slice of nature indoors.

 

2. What You Need to Make a Terrarium

Creating a terrarium requires a few essential materials to ensure your plants thrive in their miniature ecosystem. Below is a list of the key items you'll need to get started:

1. Container: The container is the foundation of your terrarium. It holds everything together and helps maintain the required humidity. Suitable containers include:
   • Glass jars: Small and clear, great for desktop terrariums.
   • Fish tanks: Ideal for larger terrariums with more plants.
   • Bowls or vases: Provide an elegant, open design for air plants or succulents.
2. Plants: Choosing the right plants is crucial. Different types of plants thrive in various terrarium environments. Some popular choices include:
   • Succulents and cacti: Best for open terrariums with dry conditions.
   • Ferns and mosses: Ideal for closed terrariums with higher humidity.
   • Air plants (Tillandsia): Perfect for minimal care and low-maintenance setups.
3. Soil: The type of soil you use depends on the plants you've chosen. Some options include:
   • Well-draining soil: Ideal for succulents and cacti.
   • Peat-based soil: Suitable for ferns, moss, and other moisture-loving plants.
   • Cactus mix: A specialized mix for desert plants requiring excellent drainage.
4. Stones, Gravel, or Pebbles: These materials form the base layer of your terrarium to provide proper drainage, ensuring that excess water doesn’t stagnate. They also help with aesthetic appeal.
5. Activated Charcoal: This layer helps filter the air and prevent odors and mold from building up inside the terrarium. It's particularly useful for closed terrariums.
6. Moss and Decorative Elements: Optional but useful for adding a unique touch to your terrarium. Moss can help retain moisture, while stones, figurines, and decorative items can enhance its look.

3. Types of Terrariums

When it comes to terrariums, there are several types that vary in terms of environment, plant selection, and maintenance. The two main categories are open and closed terrariums, but there are also variations based on the types of plants they house. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Open vs. Closed Terrariums:
   • Open Terrariums: These are typically more exposed, offering better airflow. They’re ideal for plants that require drier conditions, such as succulents and cacti.
   • Closed Terrariums: Enclosed in glass, these terrariums create a humid environment, making them perfect for moisture-loving plants like ferns and moss. The closed environment helps retain moisture and creates a self-sustaining ecosystem.
2. Desert Terrariums: These terrariums are designed to mimic dry, arid conditions. Plants such as cacti and succulents thrive in these environments. A desert terrarium needs to be placed in a well-lit spot and requires less frequent watering.
   • Plants: Cacti, succulents, and other desert plants.
   • Care: Low maintenance with limited watering, needs good sunlight.
3. Tropical Terrariums: Mimicking the humid environment of tropical rainforests, these terrariums are perfect for plants that need moisture. Ferns, moss, and orchids grow well in a tropical setup.
   • Plants: Ferns, moss, orchids, and tropical foliage.
   • Care: Requires more attention with regular watering and indirect light.
4. Forest Terrariums: These are designed to represent shaded forest environments with high humidity. Plants like miniature ferns, moss, and air plants thrive in these environments.
   • Plants: Miniature ferns, moss, and air plants.
   • Care: Maintain high humidity and indirect light.

Pros and Cons of Different Terrarium Types

Type of Terrarium	Pros	Cons
Open Terrarium	Better airflow, ideal for succulents	Needs more frequent watering
Closed Terrarium	Self-sustaining ecosystem, moisture retention	Can become too humid, mold growth
Desert Terrarium	Low maintenance, ideal for dry plants	Limited plant variety, water needs
Tropical Terrarium	Humid environment, diverse plant life	Requires more care and attention

Choosing the right type of terrarium depends on the kind of plants you want to grow and how much time you're willing to dedicate to care. Each type offers unique benefits and challenges, but all provide a wonderful way to bring nature into your home.

4. Choosing the Right Plants for Your Terrarium

Choosing the right plants for your terrarium is essential to creating a thriving miniature ecosystem. Plants have different needs, and understanding these needs will ensure that your terrarium stays healthy and looks beautiful. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting plants for your terrarium:

1. Light Requirements:
   • Plants need appropriate light levels to thrive. Some terrariums may be placed in low-light areas, while others may need bright, indirect sunlight.
   • For closed terrariums, choose plants that can tolerate low light, while open terrariums benefit from sun-loving plants like succulents.
2. Humidity:
   • Closed terrariums create a humid environment, making them ideal for moisture-loving plants like ferns and moss.
   • Open terrariums, on the other hand, require plants that thrive in dry conditions, such as succulents and cacti.
3. Size of Plants:
   • Consider the size of the plants relative to the size of your container. Choose smaller plants for compact terrariums and larger plants for bigger, more open containers.
   • Ensure that plants have enough space to grow, as overcrowding can limit air circulation and stunt their growth.

Now, let's take a closer look at some of the best plant choices for different types of terrariums:

1. Best Plants for Open Terrariums:
   • Succulents: These plants are perfect for open terrariums because they thrive in dry conditions with minimal moisture. Popular choices include Aloe Vera, Echeveria, and Haworthia.
   • Cacti: Ideal for dry, sunny environments, cacti require little water and high light exposure. They come in various shapes and sizes, adding diversity to your terrarium.
2. Best Plants for Closed Terrariums:
   • Ferns: Ferns love the high humidity and indirect light of closed terrariums. Boston ferns and maidenhair ferns are good options for creating a lush, green atmosphere.
   • Mosses: Mosses are moisture-loving plants that thrive in the humid conditions of a closed terrarium. They add a beautiful, soft texture to the landscape.
   • Air Plants (Tillandsia): These unique plants don’t require soil and thrive in humid environments. They can be placed creatively in any terrarium setup.

Mixing plants in your terrarium can enhance its aesthetic appeal and contribute to a balanced ecosystem. Here are some tips:

• Consider the plant's size: Place larger plants at the back or center, and smaller plants at the front to create depth and visual interest.
• Group plants with similar needs: Ensure that plants with similar light, water, and humidity requirements are placed together. For instance, pair succulents with other drought-tolerant plants.
• Use height and texture: Mix plants with different textures, colors, and heights for a dynamic and visually appealing terrarium.

 

5. How to Create the Perfect Terrarium

Creating a terrarium is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to design your own miniature ecosystem. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect terrarium that will thrive for years to come:

1. Step 1: Selecting the Container

   Choosing the right container is crucial to the success of your terrarium. Consider the following factors:

   • Size: Ensure the container is large enough to fit the plants and allow for their growth. A too-small container can stunt plant development, while a very large one may make maintenance more difficult.
   • Shape: The shape of your container will influence the visual appeal. Tall, narrow containers work well for plants that grow upwards, while wider containers are better for spreading plants like moss or succulents.
   • Material: Glass is the most common material used for terrariums, as it allows for visibility and proper light distribution. However, you can also use plastic or acrylic for lightweight options.
2. Step 2: Creating the Base Layers

   Building the right foundation is essential for plant health and longevity. The base layers perform important functions like drainage, filtration, and preventing mold:

   • Rocks for Drainage: Start by adding a layer of small rocks or pebbles at the bottom of the container. This helps with drainage and prevents water from accumulating at the base, which can lead to root rot.
   • Activated Charcoal Layer: Place a thin layer of activated charcoal over the rocks. This layer absorbs excess moisture and helps prevent odors, mold, and bacteria from growing in your terrarium.
   • Soil Layer: Add a layer of soil appropriate for the type of plants you are using. For example, succulents and cacti need well-draining soil, while ferns and mosses prefer soil that retains moisture. Make sure the soil layer is thick enough to accommodate the root systems of your plants.
3. Step 3: Planting the Terrarium

   Now it’s time to add your plants. Follow these steps to ensure a beautiful and healthy arrangement:

   • How to Plant Different Species:
     • For larger plants, make small holes in the soil with a spoon or your fingers and gently place the plants in their spots. Be careful not to damage the roots.
     • For smaller plants like moss or succulents, plant them closer together for a fuller look, but still leave enough space for airflow.
   • How to Place Plants for Maximum Aesthetic and Growth:
     • Start with taller plants at the back of the container, and smaller plants towards the front to create depth.
     • Arrange plants based on their light and moisture requirements, grouping those with similar needs together for optimal growth.
     • Consider the textures, colors, and growth habits of the plants to ensure a visually appealing arrangement. Use contrasting shapes and sizes to make your terrarium look dynamic.
4. Step 4: Adding Decorative Elements

   To give your terrarium a personal touch and enhance its visual appeal, consider adding decorative elements:

   • Moss: Moss adds a beautiful, lush texture and is perfect for closed terrariums.
   • Figurines: Tiny figurines, like animals or fairies, can create a whimsical or thematic atmosphere in your terrarium.
   • Stones and Crystals: Adding decorative stones or crystals can help bring some sparkle and texture to the terrarium.
   • Additional Decorations: You can also include other natural elements like driftwood, small shells, or colorful sand.
5. Step 5: Watering and Maintenance Tips

   Once your terrarium is complete, it’s important to provide proper care to keep it healthy:

   • Watering: Water your terrarium only when the soil feels dry. For closed terrariums, the moisture in the air will often be enough, while open terrariums may need more frequent watering, especially for plants like succulents and cacti.
   • Light: Place your terrarium in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can overheat the terrarium and damage the plants.
   • Temperature: Most terrarium plants thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep the terrarium in a room that stays within this range to maintain plant health.
   • Pruning: Remove dead or yellowing leaves regularly to keep your terrarium looking tidy and encourage healthy growth.
   • Cleaning: Clean the glass periodically to ensure proper light penetration and to remove any algae or mold buildup.

 

6. Terrarium Care and Maintenance

Once your terrarium is set up, it’s important to provide the right care to ensure its long-term health and beauty. Below are the key aspects of terrarium care and maintenance:

1. Watering Techniques

   Proper watering is crucial to the health of your terrarium. Here’s how to water your plants effectively:

   • How Often to Water: Water your terrarium only when the soil feels dry to the touch. For closed terrariums, moisture often condenses on the glass, reducing the need for frequent watering. Open terrariums, on the other hand, may require watering once every 2-3 weeks, depending on the plants.
   • How Much Water to Use: Use a small watering can or spray bottle to control the amount of water. For closed terrariums, misting lightly is usually sufficient. For open terrariums, water just enough to dampen the soil without creating excess moisture that could lead to root rot.
2. Ideal Temperature and Humidity Levels

   Maintaining the right temperature and humidity ensures the plants in your terrarium thrive:

   • Temperature: The ideal temperature for most terrarium plants is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing your terrarium in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, such as near heaters, radiators, or air conditioners.
   • Humidity: Closed terrariums naturally maintain higher humidity, while open terrariums may require more attention. If your open terrarium’s humidity is too low, consider placing it in a more humid environment, such as a bathroom with a window. You can also add a humidity tray beneath your terrarium to maintain moisture.
3. How to Maintain Proper Airflow

   Airflow is essential for preventing mold growth and ensuring healthy plant development:

   • For Closed Terrariums: Open the lid occasionally to allow fresh air in and reduce excess moisture. You can also use a small fan nearby to circulate air, but avoid direct drafts.
   • For Open Terrariums: Ensure they are placed in a spot with good airflow. This will help prevent mold and mildew, and keep the plants healthy by ensuring they get the proper amount of fresh air.
4. Pruning and Trimming Your Terrarium Plants

   Pruning is necessary to maintain the aesthetic appeal and health of your plants:

   • Regular Trimming: Trim dead or yellowing leaves regularly to prevent mold and mildew from forming. For plants that grow too tall, trim them to encourage bushier growth.
   • Remove Overgrown Plants: If certain plants start crowding others, prune them back to keep the arrangement balanced and healthy. This also ensures that each plant has enough space to grow.
5. Cleaning Your Container (Preventing Algae and Mold)

   Keeping the glass of your terrarium clean is important for aesthetic reasons and for ensuring proper light penetration:

   • Glass Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the glass. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can harm the plants. A vinegar-water solution works well to remove any streaks or residue.
   • Preventing Mold: Mold can form in areas with excess moisture. If you notice mold, remove it promptly by wiping it away with a clean cloth or by gently scraping it off. To prevent it from returning, ensure there’s adequate airflow and avoid overwatering.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

   Even with careful attention, problems may arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot common terrarium issues:

   • Yellowing Leaves: This is often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. If you notice yellow leaves, reduce watering and ensure your terrarium has proper drainage layers.
   • Mold Growth: Mold can appear if the terrarium is too humid or lacks airflow. Ensure proper ventilation and adjust the moisture levels. If necessary, remove the affected plants or areas of mold.
   • Pests: Small pests like aphids or fungus gnats can occasionally invade your terrarium. To remove pests, gently wipe the plants with a damp cloth or use natural insecticidal soap. Also, remove any decaying organic matter to prevent attracting pests.

 

7. Creative Ideas for Terrariums

Terrariums can be customized to suit any space or style. Whether you're looking to enhance your workspace or create a unique decorative feature for your home, here are some creative ideas for your next terrarium project:

1. Terrarium Types for Different Spaces

   Terrariums can be adapted for various settings. Here are a few ideas for incorporating them into different spaces:

   • Desk Terrariums for Workspaces: Small, compact terrariums are perfect for adding a touch of nature to your office or workspace. Choose plants like succulents or air plants that require minimal care and thrive in low light.
   • Hanging Terrariums for Home Décor: Create a striking visual element by hanging a glass terrarium from the ceiling. These look great in living rooms, kitchens, or entryways. Choose plants like ferns or trailing ivy to create a cascading effect.
   • Large Terrariums for Floor or Table Display: Large, statement-making terrariums can be used to fill empty corners or act as a centerpiece on a table. Consider using plants like tropical varieties or even small trees for an impressive display.
2. How to Make Your Terrarium Unique

   Personalize your terrarium to match your style and add an extra touch of creativity:

   • Themed Terrariums: Consider creating a themed terrarium, such as:
     • Fairy Garden: Add tiny figurines, miniature fairies, and small plants to create a whimsical fairy garden.
     • Beach Scene: Use sand, seashells, and tropical plants to create a miniature beach in a jar.
     • Jungle Terrarium: Combine lush, green plants like ferns and moss to mimic a jungle environment.
   • Adding Color with Stones, Sand, or Shells: Enhance the appearance of your terrarium by adding color through decorative elements:
     • Colorful stones or pebbles can be placed at the bottom of the container for visual appeal.
     • Use colored sand or shells to create contrast and interest within your terrarium, especially for themed designs.
   • Combining Terrariums with Other Décor Elements: Make your terrarium part of a larger home décor arrangement by pairing it with other elements like candles, small sculptures, or bookshelves. These additions can help create a cohesive and stylish look.

8. Benefits of Having a Terrarium

Terrariums offer more than just an interesting décor piece. They provide a wide range of benefits for your mental, environmental, and educational well-being, as well as enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room:

1. Mental Health Benefits

   Having a terrarium in your space can help improve mental well-being. The presence of plants and greenery is known to:

   • Promote relaxation: The calming visual of lush plants can reduce stress and create a peaceful atmosphere.
   • Provide stress relief: Interacting with your terrarium or simply admiring it can lower anxiety levels and help you relax.
   • Enhance connection with nature: Terrariums bring a small, manageable piece of nature into your indoor environment, helping you stay connected to the natural world.

    

2. Environmental Benefits

   Terrariums can also improve your indoor environment in the following ways:

   • Air purification: Many plants in terrariums, like ferns and mosses, can help purify the air by removing toxins.
   • Humidity regulation: Closed terrariums, in particular, help maintain moisture levels in the air, especially in dry environments.

    

3. Educational Benefits

   Terrariums provide a hands-on opportunity to learn:

   • Learn about plants: Observing how plants grow and interact within a closed ecosystem fosters an understanding of plant life.
   • Understand ecosystems: You can see how plants, moisture, and air work together to create a self-sustaining system.

    

4. Aesthetic Appeal

   Terrariums add natural beauty to any room. Whether used as a centerpiece or accent decor, they:

   • Enhance the aesthetic: The greenery and design can elevate the look of any space, creating a calming and stylish atmosphere.

    

9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

While terrariums are relatively low-maintenance, there are a few common issues that can arise. Knowing how to troubleshoot these problems will help you maintain a healthy and thriving terrarium. Here’s how to address some of the most common challenges:

1. Mold or Fungus

   Causes: Mold or fungus can develop when the terrarium is too moist, lacks airflow, or is kept in a very humid environment. This is common in closed terrariums.

   Solutions:

   • Reduce watering frequency to avoid excess moisture.
   • Ensure proper ventilation by opening the container occasionally or creating small air holes.
   • Remove affected plants or moldy areas carefully and clean the container with a mild solution of vinegar and water.

    

2. Overwatering or Underwatering

   Signs:

   • Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, mold growth, and soggy soil.
   • Underwatering: Dry, brittle leaves and soil pulling away from the sides of the container.

    

   Fixes:

   • For overwatering: Drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry out. Reduce watering frequency.
   • For underwatering: Increase the watering frequency but ensure it’s gradual to avoid shock to the plants.

    

3. Pest Control

   Common Pests:

   • Aphids
   • Spider mites
   • Mealybugs

    

   How to Handle Them:

   • For small infestations: Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove pests.
   • For larger infestations: Spray affected areas with a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
   • Ensure your terrarium is not overwatered, as moisture can attract pests.

    

4. Wilting or Dying Plants

   Reasons: Wilting or dying plants can be caused by poor lighting, incorrect temperature, improper watering, or pests.

   Remedies:

   • Check the plant’s light requirements and adjust its placement.
   • Inspect the roots for signs of overwatering or pest damage.
   • If necessary, trim back dead foliage to help the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

    

 

 

10. Conclusion

Creating a terrarium is a fun and creative way to bring nature indoors. The simplicity of the process, combined with the joy of watching your plants thrive, makes terrarium care a rewarding experience. Whether you’re experimenting with different plant combinations or creating unique designs, terrariums allow for endless creativity. Not only do they enhance your space, but they also offer a sustainable way to enjoy plants year-round. We encourage you to experiment with your own terrarium and enjoy the beauty and benefits it brings to your home.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How often should I water my terrarium?

   The frequency of watering depends on the type of terrarium and the plants inside.

   • Closed Terrariums: These typically require less frequent watering since the moisture is contained within the closed environment. Watering once every 2-3 weeks is usually sufficient.
   • Open Terrariums: These may need more frequent watering, depending on the plant types. Succulents and cacti, for example, prefer dry conditions, while ferns or moss may need watering once a week.

    

2. Can I use any type of glass container for a terrarium?

   While you can technically use almost any clear glass container, there are some considerations:

   • Container Size: Choose a container large enough to accommodate your plants and allow for growth. It should also allow space for airflow.
   • Shape: A container with a wide opening is easier to work with, while a tall, narrow container may be more challenging to plant in.
   • Material: Glass is ideal as it allows you to observe the plants, but ensure the container is sturdy enough for your design.

    

3. What if my plants start to rot or die in the terrarium?

   Rotting or dying plants in a terrarium are often due to:

   • Overwatering: Ensure the soil drains properly and avoid water accumulation.
   • Lack of sunlight: Make sure your terrarium is placed in a well-lit spot that matches the plant's light requirements.
   • Pests: Inspect the plants for pests and remove them immediately.

    

4. How long will my terrarium last?

   With proper care, terrariums can last for several years. Key tips for long-term care:

   • Keep plants healthy by providing proper light, watering, and pruning.
   • Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
   • Occasionally clean the container and remove dead foliage.

    

5. Can I use artificial plants in my terrarium?

   Using artificial plants has both pros and cons:

   Pros	Cons
   Low maintenance, no watering or pruning required	Doesn’t provide the same aesthetic or benefits as living plants (e.g., air purification)
   Can still create visually appealing designs	May look less realistic, and dust can accumulate over time

    

6. Can I make a terrarium without a lid?

   Yes, you can make an open terrarium, which differs in care from closed terrariums:

   • Open Terrariums: These require more frequent watering due to higher evaporation. They are suitable for plants that thrive in dry conditions, like succulents and cacti.
   • Closed Terrariums: These create a self-sustaining ecosystem with high humidity, requiring less frequent watering. They’re perfect for plants like ferns and mosses.

    

 

Additional Resources

Plants for Privacy Screens

How to Grow Indoor Tropical Plants

Best Tools for Container Gardening