Terrarium making is a fun and engaging activity that lets you unleash your creativity. Terraria – the plural of terrarium – are self-sustaining greenhouses that require very little care. Not only are they a stunning addition to any interior décor, but also a great way to enjoy plants that might not thrive in your local climate, like cacti, mosses or ferns.
From selecting your plants to adding decorative stones or tiny figurines, the possibilities are endless. The process of creating a terrarium is generally simple and suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic project for families to do together. And the best bit is watching your miniature garden grow.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about how to build a terrarium. We’ll explore the best plants to use, essential materials, and step-by-step instructions to ensure your terrarium not only looks amazing but also thrives. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a curious beginner, building a terrarium is a rewarding experience that brings a slice of nature right to your doorstep.
Are you ready to ‘lawn’ about terraria? Here’s how to create a terrarium.
Open or Closed?
Open and closed terraria (Credit: AJ_Watt via Getty Images)
Before you make your own terrarium, you’ve got a choice to make. Do you want an open terrarium or a closed one? Each one is suited to different types of plants and care requirements.
Open Terraria
An open terrarium doesn’t have a lid or cover, allowing for free airflow and lower humidity levels. This makes it ideal for plants that prefer drier conditions and good air circulation, such as succulents, cacti, and air plants. The open design prevents excess moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mould and root rot for plants sensitive to high humidity.
Closed Terraria
A closed terrarium is sealed with a lid or cover, creating a self-contained, high-humidity environment. This setup is basically the same as a miniature greenhouse with its own water cycle, where moisture evaporates and condenses within the container. Closed terrariums are great for plants that thrive in moist, humid conditions, like ferns, mosses, and tropical species, and allows them to flourish with little watering and maintenance.
Choosing between open and closed for your terrarium making project depends on the types of plants you want to grow and the level of care you’re prepared to provide. Open terrariums require more frequent watering but offer better air circulation, while closed terrariums need less watering but require monitoring to prevent excessive moisture.
What You Need to Make Your Own Terrarium
The tools of the trade (Credit: wera Rodsawang via Getty Images)
To create a terrarium, you’ll need a variety of materials to ensure a healthy environment for your plants. Here’s a list of what you need –
Glass Container
You can use any clear glass container, such as a mason jar, fish tank, or specialised terrarium container. Ensure it has a wide enough opening for planting and maintenance. If you choose a closed terrarium, a lid (like a cork or glass cover) is necessary to maintain humidity. Open terrariums do not require a lid.
Drainage Layer
A layer of coarse gravel, small pebbles or aquarium gravel helps prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the container which can lead to root rot.
Activated Charcoal
This helps filter water and can reduce odours, helping to prevent mould growth.
Barrier Layer
Landscape fabric separates the drainage layer from the soil to prevent clogging. In small terrariums, this is optional.
Soil
For closed terrariums, use moisture-retentive soil, and for open terrariums, use a gritty, well-draining mix suitable for succulents and cacti.
Decoration
In a similar way you would with a fish tank, you can use things like moss, stones, driftwood, figurines, or shells to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your terrarium.
What Plants Should You Use?
Succulent plants are perfect for a terrarium (Credit: ondacaracola photography via Getty Images)
The most important element of how to build a terrarium is choosing your plants. As we’ve said, open terrariums prefer plants used to a dry environment, such as cacti, succulents like echeveria, donkey’s tail, or crassula ovata. Closed terrariums prefer ferns, different types of moss, or tropical plants.
How to Make a Terrarium - A Step-by-Step Guide
Everyone can get involved in making a terrarium (Credit: mixetto via Getty Images)
If you want to make your own terrarium, just follow these simple steps.
- Make sure your glass container has been thoroughly cleaned
- Add your drainage layer – one or two inches – of the gravel or pebbles
- Sprinkle a thin layer of the activated charcoal over the gravel
- Add your barrier layer
- Next, add your chosen soil to a similar depth as your drainage layer, one to two inches
- Arrange your plants in the soil
- Put your decorative elements into the terrarium
- Lightly mist or water your plants, depending on their requirements
Your terrarium should be put into bright, but not direct, sunlight. By following these steps and using the right materials, you can create a thriving miniature garden that adds beauty to your space while requiring minimal maintenance.
Bring The Outside, Indoors
A tranquil terrarium (Credit: Shaiith via Getty Images)
Terrarium making is a fun and enjoyable way of bringing a piece of the natural world into your home. Whether you go for an open or closed design, these miniature gardens offer endless possibilities for creativity and personalisation. So grab a glass jar and your favourite plants and enjoy the simple pleasure of crafting your own tiny ecosystem.
