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Making a Plant Terrarium
Plant terrariums are beautiful miniature gardens in glass that add a natural and decorative element to your interior. Making a plant terrarium is not only fun and relaxing, but also a great way to bring some greenery into your home. In this blog, we discuss step-by-step how to make a plant terrarium yourself and provide handy tips to keep your terrarium in top condition.
What is a plant terrarium?
A plant terrarium is an enclosed or semi-open glass container in which various types of terrarium plants grow together. It functions as a mini-ecosystem in which the plants create their own microclimate. Due to the limited air circulation and humidity within the glass, the plants can live sustainably without requiring much maintenance. This makes a terrarium an ideal project for both novice plant enthusiasts and experienced gardeners.
How does a plant terrarium work?
A plant terrarium mimics a natural ecosystem. The moisture in the soil evaporates, condenses on the inside of the glass, and drips back to the bottom, creating a circulating water circuit. This allows the plants to survive with minimal care. In a closed terrarium, little to no water is needed because the moisture is continuously reused. An open terrarium requires slightly more attention, as it dries out more easily.
How do you make a plant terrarium?
Making a plant terrarium yourself is simple and fun. Below we describe the necessary materials and a step-by-step plan.
Plant terrarium making supplies
- A glass container (e.g. a vase, jar or bottle)
- Potting soil (especially for houseplants)
- Activated charcoal (for air purification and preventing odors)
- Small pebbles or gravel (for drainage)
- Moss (optional, for extra decoration)
- Various terrarium plants (for example ferns, succulents or small tropical plants)
- Tools: long tweezers, spoon and spray bottle
Discover: DIY Plant Terrarium Kit
Step-by-step plan for making a plant terrarium
-
Choose a suitable glass container
Select a glass jar, vase, or bottle that offers sufficient space for the plants. Consider whether you want to create a closed or open terrarium. -
Lay a layer of pebbles or gravel on the bottom
This layer provides drainage and prevents the plant roots from standing in stagnant water. -
Add a thin layer of activated charcoal
The charcoal helps to prevent unwanted odors and keep the air inside the terrarium clean. -
Apply a layer of potting soil on
Use potting soil suitable for the chosen plants. Make the layer approximately 5-7 cm thick, depending on the size of your container. -
Place the plants in the terrarium
Start with the largest plant and work your way down to the smaller plants. Ensure that the roots are firmly in the soil and that the plants have enough room to grow. -
Decorate with moss and decorations
If desired, add moss or other natural elements to give your terrarium extra appeal. -
Lightly moisten the plants
Use a spray bottle to add a small amount of water. Do this carefully to prevent the terrarium from becoming too wet.
Suitable plants for a terrarium
- Ferns (such as the hollow fern)
- Mosses
- Tropical plants (e.g. Fittonia or Pilea)
- Succulents (for open terrariums)
- Airplants (for an airy and modern effect)
Read more: Which Plants In Terrarium
Tips for making a plant terrarium
- Choose plants that have the same care requirements, such as similar humidity and light needs.
- Avoid direct sunlight on a closed terrarium, as the temperature inside can rise quickly.
- Do not use fertilized soil for a terrarium, as the plants require few extra nutrients.
- Check regularly for mold growth and remove any affected parts to keep the ecosystem healthy.
How do you care for a planted terrarium?
A terrarium requires little maintenance, but it is important to know how to care for it properly. Here are some care tips.
Plant terrarium tools
- Plant sprayer: for occasional moistening
- Long tweezers: to remove dead leaves or excess plant debris
- Small brush: for cleaning the inside of the glass
- Pruning shears: for trimming overgrown plants
View: Terrarium Tools & Supplies
Watering: Water a closed terrarium only once every few months, or when the soil is nearly dry. An open terrarium needs water slightly more often, depending on the type of plants.
Light: Place the terrarium in a spot with indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can burn the plants, while too little light results in poor growth.
Pruning: Prune the plants if necessary to prevent them from becoming too large for the terrarium.
Air circulation: Leave a closed terrarium open for a short time occasionally to prevent mold formation, especially in high humidity.
With this guide, you are ready to create and maintain your own plant terrarium. It offers a beautiful addition to your interior and a soothing piece of nature in your home. Have fun with your own miniature garden!
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