Plant Terrarium Guide
Plant terrariums, created using sealed or semi-sealed glass containers, house miniature gardens or micro-ecosystems protecting them from the external environment.
Whether you’re into Boho, French-Farmhouse, Mid-Century Modern, or Dark Academia aesthetic design, plant terrariums make the perfect decor DIY.
With infinite choices for sizes and shapes, plant terrariums can be designed to suit a wide range of plant species, from tropical plants to succulents.
Plant terrariums present several advantages compared to other types of indoor gardens including low maintenance, humidity control, and the ability to grow exotic plant species far from their natural habitats.
- April 28, 2024
- Dagmara Mach
To create a plant terrarium, you’ll need a few basic materials layered from bottom to top in the following order (Amazon links included):
- Glass container with a lid or cover
– Choose a container with an open top, but keep in mind that this will require more frequent watering and maintenance - Layer of gravel or pebbles
-Use to create drainage at the bottom of the container - Activated charcoal
-Place atop the gravel to help keep the soil fresh and prevent odors. - Potting soil
-Pick a soil that suits your plant selection - Terrarium Plants or Living Moss
-Select species with similar environmental needs that will fit comfortably within the container
Base Mediums
Gravel
Charcoal
Sculptures
Sculptures in terrariums, commonly made of materials like stone, ceramic, or wood, can serve more than an aesthetic function. Their surfaces, especially if porous, can support the growth of mosses and small plants.
Sculptures can add structural complexity to the environment, creating micro-habitats and focal points within the container garden. By maintaining adequate moisture levels and providing shade, moss can be encouraged to grow on these sculptures, enhancing the naturalistic feel of the terrarium and contributing to the overall ecological balance by offering surfaces for beneficial microorganisms.
Potting Soil
A specific potting mix suited for terrariums is vital for providing plants with the nutrients they need. This medium typically contains a blend of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite, creating a balance that holds moisture but is also well-draining and allows roots to grow easily.
Moss
Mosses used in terrariums serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose. They create a lush, green carpet that holds moisture and improves humidity within the terrarium.
Moss also helps to keep the soil in place and can contribute to the overall health of the terrarium ecosystem by providing a habitat for beneficial microorganisms.
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Glass Terrarium Containers
Greenhouse
Geometric
Dome
Cloche
Step 1: Choose Your Plants
The first step in creating a successful terrarium is choosing the right plants. Consider the amount of light available in the space you are planning to put your terrarium. Some plants require more light than others, so be sure to choose plants that will thrive in the environment you have available.
You should also take into account how much moisture each plant needs. Succulents and cacti typically need less water than tropical plants, for example. Once you’ve chosen your plants, make sure you get them from a reputable source.
Step 2: Gather Supplies
Once you have chosen your plants, it’s time to gather the supplies necessary for building your terrarium. This includes a container (glass is best), potting soil, charcoal (for drainage), rocks or gravel (for drainage), and any decorations or figurines you may want to add.
Step 3: Prepare Your Container
Before adding soil and plants to your container, it’s important to make sure it is completely clean. Use warm water and mild soap to wipe down the inside of the glass container and remove any dirt or dust particles.
Step 4: Add Soil & Charcoal
Once your container is clean, it’s time to add soil and charcoal. Start by adding a layer of charcoal at the bottom of the container for drainage purposes. Next, add enough potting soil so that when you place your plants in their pots they will sit at least an inch above the top of the soil.
Step 5: Arrange Plants & Decorations
Now that everything is in place, it’s time to arrange your plants and decorations in whatever way pleases you most! Be sure not to overcrowd or over-water any of your plants – this could lead to rot or disease.
Step 6: Care & Maintenance
Your terrarium should now be ready for its new inhabitants! To keep it healthy and thriving, make sure you provide enough light (if needed), water regularly but not too much (as this can cause mold growth), and prune back any dead leaves or branches as needed.
Low Maintenance:
One of the primary advantages of a plant terrarium is that it is relatively low maintenance. Because the container is enclosed, the plants can recycle moisture and nutrients, which means that they require less watering and fertilization than traditional potted plants. This makes them a great option for people who don’t have a lot of time or who are new to gardening.
Humidity control:
Due to the enclosed nature of the container, the terrarium can help to regulate humidity levels. This can be especially beneficial for certain plants that require high levels of humidity, such as tropical plants or ferns.
Certain types of plants thrive particularly well in a terrarium environment, compared to a regular indoor environment.
Plant Varieties for Terrarium Gardens
Mosses and Miniature Plants
Tropical Plants
Succulents and Cacti
While some succulents and cacti can thrive in regular indoor environments, others may require more specialized care, such as a drier environment or more intense sunlight. A terrarium can provide a controlled environment that is better suited to the needs of these types of plants, allowing them to thrive in an indoor setting.
These grasses, shrubs, and trees stabilize soil, reduce runoff, and improve infiltration through deep and extensive root systems. Learn more.
Low maintenance microclimates for indoor plants. Learn more.
