Terrarium Plants: How to Make a Basic Terrarium

Introduction

Terrarium plants are miniature gardens housed within transparent containers, offering a fascinating glimpse into a self-contained ecosystem. They bring the beauty of nature indoors, serving as a perfect way to infuse a touch of greenery into even the smallest of spaces. Whether placed on a desk, shelf, or windowsill, terrariums provide a stylish and modern way to enjoy plants while doubling as elegant decor.

Creating your own terrarium is not only a fun and creative activity but also offers several benefits. They are low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering and care, making them ideal for busy individuals or those new to gardening. Terrariums also improve air quality and provide a calming, therapeutic effect as you tend to their delicate beauty.

The simplicity of a basic terrarium setup is one of its most appealing features. With just a few materials, such as a glass container, soil, pebbles, and plants, you can craft your own little world of greenery. Whether you’re looking for a personal project or a thoughtful DIY gift, making a terrarium is an enjoyable and rewarding endeavor.

What Are Terrariums and Why Are They Popular?

Definition and Purpose of Terrariums

A terrarium is a miniature garden housed within a clear container, designed to replicate the conditions of a small, self-sustaining ecosystem. These glass-enclosed arrangements serve both decorative and functional purposes, providing an ideal environment for growing certain plants indoors. Terrariums can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts alike. They bring a natural, calming element into any indoor space, adding a touch of life and vibrancy.

Types of Terrariums: Open vs. Closed

Terrariums come in two primary types, each with its own unique characteristics:

Open Terrariums: These are containers without lids, allowing for more air circulation. Open terrariums are ideal for plants that thrive in drier environments, such as succulents and cacti. They are best placed in areas with indirect sunlight to prevent the plants from overheating.
Closed Terrariums: These are sealed containers that create a humid environment, perfect for moisture-loving plants like ferns, moss, and fittonias. Closed terrariums mimic a rainforest ecosystem, allowing water to cycle through condensation and evaporation, requiring very little watering.

Benefits: Low Maintenance, Space-Saving, and Decorative

Terrariums have gained popularity for several reasons:

Low Maintenance: Their enclosed environment means less watering and care compared to traditional houseplants. Closed terrariums, in particular, can thrive for weeks without intervention.
Space-Saving: They are compact and versatile, fitting seamlessly into small spaces like desks, shelves, or countertops.
Decorative Appeal: Terrariums are visually striking and customizable, making them a perfect centerpiece or accent for any room. They can be styled to match various aesthetics, from modern minimalism to whimsical fairy gardens.

With their practicality and charm, it’s no wonder terrariums have become a favorite indoor gardening trend. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing hobby or a stylish decor piece, terrariums offer the best of both worlds.

Essential Supplies for Making a Basic Terrarium

Creating a basic terrarium is an easy and rewarding project, but the right supplies are essential to ensure a thriving and visually appealing miniature garden. Here’s a guide to the materials you’ll need to get started:

Container Options

Choosing the right container is the first step in making a terrarium.

Glass Bowls: Perfect for open terrariums, offering ample space for plants and decorative arrangements.
Jars: Mason jars or apothecary jars are versatile and commonly used for both open and closed terrariums.
Geometric Terrariums: Stylish and modern, these are great for showcasing succulents or other low-maintenance plants.

The container should be clear to allow light in and enable you to view the layers of the terrarium.

Layering Materials

The foundation of your terrarium is built with specific layers to maintain plant health and aesthetic appeal:

Pebbles or Gravel: These create a drainage layer at the bottom to prevent water from pooling and causing root rot.
Activated Charcoal: Helps keep the terrarium odor-free and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
Potting Soil: Use soil appropriate for the plants you’ve chosen. For succulents, opt for a well-draining cactus mix, while general potting soil works well for moss and ferns.

Plants to Consider

The plants you select will determine the overall look and care requirements of your terrarium. Here are some popular choices:

Moss: Ideal for closed terrariums due to its preference for high humidity.
Ferns: These thrive in the moist environment of a closed terrarium and add a lush, green aesthetic.
Succulents: Perfect for open terrariums, as they prefer drier conditions and good airflow.
Air Plants: Require minimal soil and can be creatively placed for a unique design.

Decorative Items

Adding decorative elements personalizes your terrarium and makes it a standout piece. Consider including:

Miniature Figurines: Create a whimsical or thematic look.
Stones or Shells: Add texture and visual interest.
Natural Elements: Twigs, bark, or sand can enhance the overall design.

With these supplies, you’ll have everything you need to craft a stunning and functional terrarium. The materials are easy to find and allow for endless creativity, making this project enjoyable for gardeners of all skill levels.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Terrarium

Creating a terrarium is a straightforward and enjoyable process that allows you to design a miniature garden tailored to your style. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own:

1. Prepare the Container

Before starting, choose a clear glass container that suits the type of terrarium you want to create (open or closed).

Clean the container thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues.
Dry it completely to ensure no moisture interferes with the initial layering process.
Ensure the container has no cracks or chips to maintain its integrity and aesthetic appeal.

2. Add Layers

Building the base layers is crucial for the health of your terrarium.

Pebbles or Gravel: Add a 1-2 inch layer of pebbles to create proper drainage. This prevents excess water from accumulating at the bottom.
Activated Charcoal: Sprinkle a thin layer of activated charcoal over the pebbles to absorb odors and keep the environment fresh.
Potting Soil: Add 2-3 inches of soil suitable for your chosen plants. Smooth the surface to create an even base for planting.

3. Position Plants

Carefully select and arrange your plants to create a visually appealing layout.

Start with larger plants: Place these towards the back or center, depending on the viewing angle.
Add smaller plants: Fill in the gaps with smaller varieties, ensuring all plants have enough space to grow.
Press the roots gently into the soil and pat down to secure them in place.

Pro Tip: Leave a small gap between plants to allow for air circulation and future growth.

4. Decorate

Personalize your terrarium with decorative elements to make it uniquely yours.

Add miniature figurines to create a themed look, such as a fairy garden or a Zen space.
Incorporate natural accents like stones, shells, or bark for texture and interest.
Use colored sand or moss for added vibrancy and contrast.

With these simple steps, your terrarium will be ready to display and enjoy. This project combines creativity with practicality, resulting in a beautiful, low-maintenance piece of living art.

Best Plants for a Basic Terrarium

Choosing the right plants is key to creating a thriving and visually appealing terrarium. The type of terrarium you choose—closed or open—will determine which plants are most suitable. Below is a guide to the best plants for each type and tips on how to select them based on light and moisture requirements.

1. Closed Terrarium Plants

Closed terrariums create a humid and warm environment, mimicking a rainforest. These are ideal for moisture-loving plants that thrive in such conditions:

Moss: Perfect for closed terrariums, moss adds a lush, green carpet-like effect and thrives in high humidity.
Ferns: Small fern varieties, such as maidenhair or button ferns, do well in the humid environment of closed terrariums.
Fittonias (Nerve Plants): Known for their colorful, veined leaves, fittonias add a vibrant touch and flourish in the low-light, humid conditions of closed terrariums.

2. Open Terrarium Plants

Open terrariums allow for air circulation and are better suited for plants that prefer drier conditions and indirect light:

Succulents: Varieties like echeveria, jade plants, and sedums are excellent choices due to their tolerance for dry environments.
Cacti: Miniature cacti bring a desert-like charm to open terrariums and require minimal watering.
Air Plants (Tillandsias): These versatile plants can be placed creatively without soil and are easy to maintain in open terrariums.

3. How to Choose Plants Based on Light and Moisture Requirements

Selecting plants that align with your terrarium’s environment is essential for long-term success:

Light Needs:
For closed terrariums, choose plants that tolerate low to medium light, as the glass container diffuses light.
For open terrariums, opt for plants that thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, such as succulents and cacti.
Moisture Needs:
Closed terrariums require plants that enjoy consistent moisture and high humidity, like mosses and ferns.
Open terrariums should include plants that can tolerate dry conditions and less frequent watering.

By selecting the right plants and considering their specific needs, you can create a beautiful and sustainable terrarium that enhances your indoor space. Whether you prefer the lush greenery of a closed terrarium or the striking simplicity of an open one, there’s a perfect plant for every style.

Tips for Maintaining Your Terrarium

A well-maintained terrarium can last for months or even years, bringing continuous beauty and greenery to your indoor space. Proper care ensures that your plants thrive and your terrarium remains visually appealing. Below are essential tips for maintaining your terrarium, with additional resources to guide you.

1. How to Water Without Over-Saturating

Overwatering is one of the most common issues with terrariums. To avoid this:

Use a spray bottle or a small watering can to apply water sparingly.
For closed terrariums, water only when condensation is no longer visible on the walls.
For open terrariums, water succulents and cacti only when the soil is completely dry.

For more detailed watering advice, check out this terrarium care guide.

2. Light Needs for Different Terrarium Types

Providing the right amount of light is critical for the health of your plants.

Closed Terrariums: Place them in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can create excessive heat and damage the plants.
Open Terrariums: Succulents and cacti thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Rotate the terrarium occasionally to ensure even light exposure.

Learn more about plant-specific light requirements in this guide to terrarium lighting.

3. Preventing Mold and Plant Diseases

A humid environment can sometimes encourage mold and other diseases. Here’s how to prevent them:

Avoid overwatering to reduce moisture levels.
Ensure good air circulation by opening a closed terrarium occasionally.
Remove any decaying leaves or plants immediately to prevent the spread of mold.

Explore additional tips for mold prevention in this terrarium health guide.

4. When and How to Prune or Refresh Your Terrarium

Regular maintenance helps keep your terrarium tidy and promotes healthy plant growth.

Pruning: Trim overgrown plants to prevent crowding and allow smaller plants to receive light. Use small, sharp scissors for precision.
Refreshing: Replace plants that outgrow the terrarium or become unhealthy. Add fresh soil and reassemble as needed.

For a step-by-step tutorial, visit this terrarium maintenance guide.

Proper care doesn’t require much time but goes a long way in keeping your terrarium vibrant and beautiful. By following these tips and consulting expert resources, you’ll enjoy a lush and thriving terrarium for years to come.

Conclusion

Terrariums are a wonderful way to bring nature indoors, combining creativity and simplicity in a beautiful display. These miniature gardens allow you to craft a personalized green space, no matter how small your home or office may be. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, the process of creating a terrarium is both enjoyable and accessible, requiring only a few basic supplies and a little imagination.

The joy of a terrarium lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its low-maintenance nature. With minimal care, your plants can thrive, providing a touch of greenery and tranquility to your indoor spaces. From open terrariums with succulents to closed ones filled with lush moss and ferns, the options are endless, allowing you to design a terrarium that reflects your style and personality.

Ready to create your own terrarium? Start with the basics, and let your creativity take over. For those eager to explore more, check out advanced designs and care tips to elevate your terrarium game. Embrace the therapeutic and decorative benefits of these miniature gardens, and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own little world. It’s time to get started!