What is a Terrarium?

A terrarium is a miniature indoor garden grown in a glass or sealed container. These gardens provide a unique environment for plants, allowing them to thrive in conditions that are different from the outside world.

Choosing Plants for Your Terrarium

When choosing plants for your terrarium, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Closed Terrariums: Closed terrariums are sealed containers that create a humid, tropical environment. Plants suitable for closed terrariums include nerve plants, asparagus ferns, moss, and peperomia.
• Open Terrariums: Open terrariums are not sealed and have a drier environment. Plants suitable for open terrariums include air plants, echeveria, cacti, and jade plants.

Recommended Plants for Beginners

Closed Terrariums:

• Nerve plant (Fittonia)
• Asparagus fern (Asparagus setaceus)
• Moss
• Peperomia
• Polka dot plant (Hypoestes Phyllostachya)
• Pilea
• Creeping fig (Ficus pumila)
• Arrowhead vine (Syngonium)
• Spike moss (Selaginella)
• Strawberry begonia (Saxifraga stolonifera)
• Prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura)
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
• African violet (Streptocarpus)
• Earth star plant (Cryptanthus bivittatus)
• Jewel orchid (Ludisia discolor)

Open Terrariums:

• Air plants (Tillandsia)
• Echeveria
• Cacti
• Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
• Button fern (Pallaea rotundifolia)
• Haworthias
• Mexican snowball (Echeveria elegans)
• Ox tongue (Gasteria batesiana)
• Crassula ‘Buddha’s Temple’
• Burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum)

Tips for Choosing Terrarium Plants:

• Choose plants that are suitable for the type of terrarium you have (closed or open).
• Select plants that are low maintenance and slow growing.
• Choose plants with different shapes, sizes, and colors to create a visually appealing display.
• Consider the amount of light your terrarium receives and choose plants that are tolerant of those conditions.
• Make sure the plants you choose are safe for pets and children.

What is a Terrarium?

A terrarium is a miniature ecosystem enclosed in a glass container. It can be open or closed. Open terrariums are easier to care for and are a good choice for beginners. Closed terrariums are more self-sustaining but can be more challenging to set up.

How to Make an Open Terrarium

1. Choose a container. Any clear glass jar or bowl will do.
2. Add a layer of drainage material. This could be gravel, pebbles, or even activated charcoal.
3. Add a layer of potting mix. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix for open terrariums.
4. Plant your cacti or succulents. Use kitchen tongs or wrap them in paper to protect your hands.
5. Add a decorative layer of mulch. This could be gravel, pebbles, or even sand.

How to Make a Closed Terrarium

1. Choose a container with a lid. A glass jar or bottle with a cork or glass lid is ideal.
2. Add a layer of activated charcoal. This will help to keep the water clean.
3. Add a layer of potting mix. Use a houseplant potting mix for closed terrariums.
4. Plant your humidity-loving plants. Remove the plants from their pots and gently drop them into the jar.
5. Add a layer of moss. This will help to keep the humidity high.
6. Add a layer of pebbles. This will help to weigh down the moss and create a natural look.
7. Seal the jar or bottle.

Tips for Terrarium Care

• Place your terrarium in a bright spot out of direct sunlight.
• Water your terrarium sparingly. Only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
• Keep an eye on your plants and take action if they start to turn brown or wilt.

Troubleshooting Terrarium Problems

• Brown or wilting plants: This could be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
• Mold or fungus: This could be a sign of too much humidity. Open the terrarium lid or remove the plants and let them dry out.
• Pests: Terrariums can attract pests, such as aphids or mealybugs. Treat the pests with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.