How to Make a Terrarium in 5 Easy Steps
Let’s get growing.
With just a glass container, potting soil, and a few small house plants, you can make your own at-home terrarium. You don’t need a lot of space or even a garden to keep your plants thriving indoors. Read on to learn how to make a terrarium in just a few easy steps.
What Is a Terrarium?
Terrariums are miniature gardens housed inside small, and usually sealable, glass containers. They’re mostly self-sustaining with plants watering themselves and creating their own ecosystem which makes them the perfect low-maintenance house plants. Choose between an open or closed planter and fill it with plants and decor to best suit your design and lifestyle.
Small plants like succulents and cacti are great choices for open terrariums. Choose plants in different shapes and colors for a unique terrarium look. Follow the directions below for planting a terrarium, but plant them in succulent or cactus mix in an open container.
For closed terrariums, choose plants that thrive in high-humidity conditions. These plants include small ferns, pothos, and african violets. Be sure to keep the lid closed tightly to ensure the proper cycle of the terrarium.
Step 1
Use a clean, glass container with a large opening to easily add your plants. Fill the bottom inch of the container with pebbles. These allow for excess water to drain away from the plants and prevent root rot.
Step 2
Add a thin layer of real or faux moss over the pebbles to help with extra drainage and incorporate more color.
Step 3
Add a couple of inches of standard potting soil like perlite over the moss. Mix in some charcoal to help absorb any excess moisture in the air and prevent any bacteria build up.
Tip!
If you get any soil on the glass, use a small, dry paint brush to dust it off.
Step 4
Remove the plants from their containers and gently loosen the roots with your fingers. Keep in mind that the roots will grow, so remember to leave room and not to crowd too many in one space.
Step 5
Add another layer of moss around the plants for a finished look, or use decorative objects like pebbles, glass, or shells. Water lightly with a small watering can or spray bottle. Avoid watering so much that water collects in the bottom.
Remember to keep your terrarium out of direct sunlight, and rotate the structure regularly so the plant’s don’t crowd to one side.
Now that you know how to make a terrarium is this easy, you can share these plants as decor or gifts – they are the perfect desk accessories to keep at home or at the office.
