Terrarium & Container (2024)

FAQs

What container to use for a terrarium? ›

Any clear glass or plastic container is suitable to use as a terrarium.

How long do terrariums last? Terrariums can last anywhere from several years or even longer, if well maintained.

You Can Also Keep Them in Their Own Containers

In taller or larger glass cases, plants can remain in their own containers. This is particularly helpful for growing different species with very different soil or water requirements in the same terrarium, such as orchids with ferns.

One of the biggest benefits of having a terrarium in your home or office is that they are incredibly low maintenance. Unlike traditional potted plants that require regular watering and pruning, terrariums are self-contained ecosystems that can thrive with minimal care.

In times past, it was thought that a layer of rocks or pebbles should be added to the bottom of the container for drainage. (It can be a design choice for a clear dish garden or open terrarium.) This is no longer the case.

I mix equal parts sand, sphagnum moss and potting soil. You'll also need a base layer of either pea gravel or clay pebbles. This allows the water to sit at the bottom until the plants need it. There are many different species of tropical plants you could use.

We advise that terrariums in our own personal experience are best in a good natural light position. AVOID too direct Sunlight otherwise the terrarium will get very warm inside and you'll have too much condensation. The average room temperature of around 19-21C is perfect.

What we do: In winter we check our cacti and succulent terrariums every 4 weeks, and water them lightly every 4-6 weeks or less. In summer months during it's growing season, your terrarium will need more water. In the height of summer we check ours weekly, and water lightly every 1-2 weeks.

Terrariums are fairly low maintenance and the plants growing inside them will largely look after themselves. Closed jars will create their own ecosystem and even become self-watering.

If you see any dead or dry leaves, remove them immediately from the terrarium to avoid the unwanted spread of mould or fungus. Leaves that are pushed up against the glass of the terrarium have a tendency to get too damp and rot, so remove if possible.

How many plants should be in a terrarium? ›

I recommend using 1 to 3 plants for a small container (less than 6 inches in diameter), and 4-5 for a large container (over 6 inches in diameter). Before placing your plants in the terrarium, squeeze or open up your roots so they can take better hold of the soil.

Yes, plant-eating insects can be good for your terrarium in a number of ways. They help to control the population of plants. Plant-eating insects can help to keep your terrarium plants in check by eating their leaves and stems. This can help to prevent the plants from overgrowing and taking over the terrarium.

The charcoal helps absorb any sitting water and prevents odors and bacteria build-up. Next add moss, which you can purchase by the bag at garden centers and craft stores. Not only does this add an authentic forest look to your terrarium, but it will prevent and stop the soil from dripping to the bottom when watering.

Too much water will cause your terrariums to grow mouldy – which is a definite no-no! Generally, a terrarium is kept indoors with no direct sunlight. A terrarium is kept away from heat sources as too much heat might cause the plants in your terrarium to wilt and eventually leading to its death.

Glass jars, fish bowls and tanks, clear plastic bottles and food containers can all make fine terrariums. Just make sure there is enough room to reach your hand into your container for planting and maintenance.

Any clear glass or plastic container may be used. (a glass jar in your case) Most garden centers carry terrarium type containers but dont be afraid to think out of the box! I personally like to use unique containers such as hollowed out lightbulbs and scientific beakers.

Gather plants and a clean mason jar

Keeping it simple and small with one or two small plants will probably work best if you're doing this with kids. You can fill up space with fun accessories like Legos! Note: We prepped our mason jars by painting the lids – just to give them a more finished look.

Our begonia society members and I have been using clear plastic party bowls that we easily found at our local party goods stores to make terrariums for plants that require high humidity.