A successful terrarium lasts years
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
Aterrariumis a miniature, self-contained indoor garden.
Once established, they can last for years and need very little care.
They thrive on neglect, so even a determined serial plant killer can keep one of these alive.
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
There are closed jar terrariums and open jar terrariums.
Closed jar terrariums maintain moisture very effectively, while open jar terrariumsneed occasional mistingor other methods to provide moisture.
To do this, you use the lid for your planter.
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
Do Jar Terrariums Need Charcoal?
Activated charcoal isn’t necessary in terrariums, though it can be helpful.
It absorbs impurities from the air and water when used as the drainage layer of the substrate materials.
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
It can also prevent mold and mildew growth and reduce humidity.
However, over time, it may become less effective.
There are some alternatives to charcoal.
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
One option is using moss to absorb odors and excess water.
Moss also helps stabilize humidity levels for plants that need it.
Springtails feed on fungus, mold, and decaying matter in your terrarium.
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
Then let it air out completely.
When making a closed terrarium, it’s important to wash the lid thoroughly.
Want more gardening tips?
The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala
These materials create good drainage and also support the roots of your plants.
If your plant is in a cell pack, squeeze the bottom and push the plant out.
You want the root ball to be compact and if possible, have all the roots covered with soil.
Press the root ball into the soil layer so that it is mounded, but doesn’t overflow.
Slightly taller plants in the center of a round jar make the best design.
Use a soft cotton cloth; paper towels might leave fibers that cling to the glass.
Keep the moss away from the crown of the plant.
Dress Up Your Terrarium
you’re free to use anyterrarium plantsthat will fit.
Open jar terrariums need more moisture and regular misting, so check them at least once a week.
Try the following plants for a closed terrarium.
Mosses do best in a closed terrarium, where they have more consistent moisture.
In an open terrarium, you will need to mist with water to keep the moss consistently moist.
While shade-loving plants can do well in terrariums, most terrariums need at least some sunlight.
Bright but indirect sunlight is best.
