A terrarium is a compact glass or plastic container where small plants are planted. If you want to grow visually appealing and heat-loving plants in a small space, try a glass terrarium. You can select low-maintenance plants that are still visually appealing. Terrariums come in various types, closed, open, and semi-open. When properly installed and placed, it provides a novel way to grow many plants with minimal care.

The first step in planning a terrarium is to decide whether it will be open or closed. In this case, a closed terrarium offers the most humidity retention. Closed terrariums require less water compared to open terrariums. In closed terrariums, controlling water flow and environmental conditions is easier, and there is also less risk of disease because of the higher humidity. Therefore, due to overall convenience and accessibility, closed terrariums are often more highly valued.

How To Make A Terrarium 

Terrarium sizes vary depending on the type of plants you grow. A terrarium usually has four to five layers. Terrarium plants absorb water from the soil through the processes of transpiration, evaporation, and condensation. Most terrarium plants are small, because fast-growing species such as large-leaved plants can take up the entire terrarium and block light. Plants for terrariums should be selected that are small in size and grow well in moderate light and humidity. To make a terrarium you will need a terrarium pot, funnel or piece of wrapping paper, drainage stone, activated carbon, rake, scoop, soil, watering can, water, and plants. Below is the process of making a typical terrarium:

 Choose A Container 

The first and most basic element for a terrarium system is choosing an ideal container. The advantage of making a terrarium is that you can use any clean container or glass jar you have at hand, and if you want, you can also purchase a terrarium container of your desired size and design from the local market.   Make sure the entrance to the container is wide and clear to properly place your plants, drainage materials, soil, rocks and other necessary materials in the container. Popular options for terrarium containers include aquariums, goldfish bowls, mason jars, pickle jars, and guardian cases.

Choose The Plants

Generally, low growing plants and those with small size and leaves are selected for terrarium systems. You can select plants based on the size and shape of the container you choose. For general advice on tree selection, you can visit your local garden center or nursery, where you will find a wide variety of plants. Consider choosing from a variety of houseplants, such as crotons, pothos, lucky bamboo and creeping figs, depending on your choice of plants. However, choose plants with small leaves because large leaves will block the necessary sunlight from entering the terrarium, which is a threat to your terrarium system.

Prepare Drainage Layer 

Terrarium containers do not have drainage holes, so creating a drainage layer is important to prevent root rot and maintain plant health. Place a 2-inch thick layer of gravel, sea glass, or beach stones at the bottom of your container. On top of the gravel, add a 2-inch thick layer of activated charcoal or sea glass to prevent fungal growth when the stones are wet. Next, use a large spoon to add a layer of charcoal about half to one inch thick on top of the gravel. This helps prevent fungal growth on the stones when water is applied.

Add Moss & Potting Mix

You can add pebbles to your terrarium to give it an interesting look. Add a layer of moss over the stone layer to keep the potting soil from mixing, plus moss adds visual appeal to the terrarium. Now you add sterile potting soil on top of the moss layer with a spoon. The terrarium system does not require additional fertilizer so add as much organic potting soil as possible (5-7 cm deep). Since plants will absorb essential nutrients and water from the soil, it is essential to add an ideal potting mix.

Add Plants 

Now it’s time to pot your chosen plants. Use your fingers, a scoop, or a large spoon to dig a hole in the potting soil for each plant you selected. Carefully place each plant in the hole and compact around it. Use the rake to spread the soil around the plant and cover the plant victims well with soil. Make sure there is about half an inch of soil on top of each plant.

Watering

Water is an essential ingredient for terrarium plants. Water needs to be added after placing the plants in the terrarium container. Plants can be watered with a small watering can or by spraying. Water the terrarium pot by rotating it so that the soil is evenly wetted and stop watering when the soil is completely wet and avoid overwatering. Overwatering can cause waterlogging near the roots, which can damage the roots and cause root rot.

Seal the Pot

In the first week, remove the cork from the bottle, and then in the following week, partially insert the cork into the bottle. If condensation forms inside the bottle after two weeks, the bottle can be sealed with the cork. Before sealing, ensure that there is an adequate amount of moisture present inside the bottle with the water.

How To Care For Your Terrarium

After setting up a terrarium, plants require care for proper growth. Ideal sunlight, adequate watering, cleaning of terrarium containers and pruning of damaged plants are required. Without proper care your terrarium system will not grow well and eventually the plants will die. Here’s how a terrarium system can produce effective results with proper care:

Placement

Keep your terrarium in a bright location, preferably near a bright window, but make sure direct sunlight does not hit the terrarium directly.If placed in direct sunlight or extremely bright light, the temperature inside the terrarium can quickly rise, and the terrarium glass can act as a magnifier. As a result, the plants may burn.If there is no bright spot where your terrarium can receive direct sunlight, provide it with 16 to 18 hours of artificial light per day. In such cases, a 100-watt fluorescent bulb can be used to provide light for the terrarium.

Watering System

Overwatering can damage the plants in a terrarium. For open terrariums, water once a week or when the soil is dry using a spray bottle or a tablespoon. Stop adding water when you see it collecting at the bottom of the terrarium.

For closed terrariums, you may only need to water every 4-6 months. Keep an eye on condensation on the plants and dry soil. Condensation should form on the inside of the container and eventually drip back down into the soil. If it forms on the plants instead, the interior is too moist. Leave the cover off for some time each day until the plants dry out, which may take 30 minutes to an hour. If the soil dries out, add water sparingly, and stop if you notice it pooling on the surface without absorbing.

Remove Dying Plants

If you notice a plant in your terrarium is unhealthy or dead, remove it as soon as possible because its condition can potentially affect other plants. You can use terrarium tools, chopsticks, or a large spoon to remove the plant, ensuring that the roots of other plants are not disturbed. Then, replace it with another plant of similar size and with the same care requirements.

Maintenance

Terrarium plants prefer bright indirect light. Keep your terrarium out of direct sunlight, which can burn the plants. Besides, if your home does not have enough lighting, then you can arrange LED fluorescent artificial lighting. Remove damaged leaves, accumulated debris and dead plants regularly or prune with a sharp pruner or scissors.   Fertilizer is not necessary for terrarium plants as it can cause overgrowth and salt build-up in the soil. Clean the glass of the terrarium container with soap, inside and out. If the glass looks dirty, less light will reach the plants. Use soft paper or a soft cloth dampened with water to clean the glass. Avoid using harsh cleaning products.

How To Make A Terrarium With Animals

To create a terrarium with living creatures, start by selecting a glass container and adding a layer of gravel at the bottom for drainage. Spread a layer of activated charcoal to prevent odors, then add a layer of sphagnum moss. Provide appropriate potting soil for your chosen plants. Plant small, terrarium-suitable plants and arrange decorative elements like stones or driftwood. Next, carefully introduce small creatures such as snails, frogs, or insects, ensuring they have enough space. Spray the plants with water and maintain humidity. Place the terrarium in a location with suitable light and temperature, and regularly monitor and care for both the plants and the animals.

Suitable Animals For A Terrarium

Which animals are suitable for a terrarium depends on your care experience, the size of the terrarium, and how much time you can dedicate. Here are some popular animals that can be good for a terrarium:

Gecko: Geckos thrive in terrariums with plenty of vertical space to climb. They need a warm environment with a temperature gradient, UVB lighting, and a substrate that allows them to burrow or hide. Live plants and rocks enhance their habitat and provide hiding spots. Regularly check for humidity levels as different gecko species have specific needs.

Turtle: Turtles require a larger terrarium with both land and water areas. The water section should have a filter and be deep enough for them to swim. The land area should include basking spots with a heat lamp. Ensure the terrarium is equipped with UVB lighting to support shell health and overall well-being. Provide a varied diet including vegetables, fruits, and protein.

Salamander: Salamanders need a terrarium with moist soil, high humidity, and ample hiding spots. Use a substrate like sphagnum moss or leaf litter. Include live plants and rocks to mimic their natural habitat. Maintain cool temperatures and ensure the terrarium is well-ventilated to prevent mold growth. Avoid bright lights, as salamanders prefer low-light environments.

Frog: Frogs require a terrarium with high humidity and a warm temperature. Provide a water dish or shallow pond for hydration and soaking. Incorporate live plants and plenty of hiding places. Some frogs are toxic or sensitive to certain conditions, so research the specific species you plan to keep. Regular misting and maintaining clean water are essential for their health.

Insects: Insects like tarantulas and praying mantises need a terrarium that mimics their natural habitat. Tarantulas require a substrate for burrowing, while mantises need vertical space for climbing. Ensure the terrarium has appropriate humidity and temperature levels. Provide food specific to the species, and regularly clean the terrarium to prevent mold and pests.

Care An  Animal Terrarium

To care for an animal terrarium, you need to keep a few important things in mind. First, monitor the temperature and humidity throughout the terrarium, as maintaining the correct environment is crucial for various species. Spray water regularly to maintain humidity and change the water in any water features as needed. Ensure the animals have adequate food and clean water, and regularly check and adjust these supplies as necessary. Keep the plants and other elements in the terrarium clean, and clean the terrarium itself regularly to prevent bacterial or fungal growth. Check the health of the animals frequently and take prompt action if any issues arise. Proper care and regular monitoring are essential for the terrarium’s well-being.

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