If cared for properly, these self-sustaining ecosystems last several years.
Terrariums also make wonderful and impressive gifts for home gardeners of any level.
Cacti and succulents dont tolerate high humidity.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
They also have different soil, light, and watering requirements.
Tip
Open terrariums areless likely to experience problemswith condensation and fungal plant diseases thanclosed terrariums.
Pick plants from that group with various foliage forms.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
They should preferably not touch the sides of the terrarium.
Prepare the Plants
Before planting, decide on the design of your terrarium.
Add Plants
Shake off any excess soil left on the plants.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Use a long spoon or your fingers to dig a planting hole for each plant.
Decorate
Decorating the inside of the terrarium is optional.
Place small figurines, shells, decorative stones, or other whimsical accents among the plants.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
How to Care for a Terrarium
A terrarium calls for basic, but regular care.
If you don’t have enough natural filtered sunlight in your home, use LED or fluorescent artificial lighting.
Humidity
Before watering, feel the soil to see if it’s dry and needs water.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Partially and fully enclosed terrariums retain water considerably longer than most potted houseplants.
Air Circulation
Inspect a closed terrarium for condensation.
Take off the top at least once a month to increase airflow.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Leave the top off until the condensation disappears.
Also, take off the terrarium top if you added too much water.
Fertilizer
Skip fertilizer.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Most potting soils already have a bit of fertilizer in them.
In other words, you better create conditions that mimic the animal’s natural environment.
Want more gardening tips?
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
A terrarium starts with a base layer of gravel, which allows for drainage.
After that, an activated charcoal section will help with water purification.
And finally, a layer of soil to house your plants and any hardscaping details.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Closed terrariums tend to last longer, possibly indefinitely.
Yes, although the plants are in an enclosed space, they need to breathe.
University of Missouri Extension.
