How to Make a Terrarium: A Beginner’s Guide

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Terrarium

Creating a terrarium is an enjoyable and straightforward process that allows you to have a miniature ecosystem in your home. Below are detailed steps to help you build a proper terrarium.

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools

First, choose a suitable glass container. It can be a glass jar, a small aquarium, or any transparent vessel.

How to Clean the Glass Container:

• Wash the container with warm water and mild soap to remove dirt.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
• Let it dry completely before use.

If using an old container, you can sterilize it with a diluted vinegar solution to eliminate bacteria.

Step 2: Create the Drainage Layer

Since terrariums do not have drainage holes, you need a drainage layer to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

How to Create a Drainage Layer:

• Spread a layer of small pebbles or gravel about 2 to 3 cm thick at the bottom of the container.
• If the container is large, you can use larger stones to improve drainage efficiency.
• For better results, add broken ceramic pieces or clay pebbles.

A good drainage layer helps maintain moisture without oversaturating the roots.

Step 3: Add Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal helps remove bacteria, odors, and control moisture inside the terrarium.

How to Use Activated Charcoal:

• Sprinkle a thin layer of charcoal, about 1 cm thick, over the pebbles.
• Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.

If you cannot find activated charcoal at a plant store, you can purchase it at pet stores where aquarium supplies are sold.

Step 4: Add the Soil

The soil layer is the growing medium for plants, so selecting the right soil type is essential.

How to Choose the Right Soil:

• For tropical plants like ferns and moss, use nutrient-rich soil that retains moisture well.
• For succulents or cacti, choose well-draining soil such as cactus mix.

How to Add Soil:

• Pour a soil layer about 5 to 7 cm thick over the charcoal layer.
• Use a spoon or small tool to spread the soil evenly and gently press it down to remove air pockets.

Step 5: Plant Your Greenery

Once the base layers are ready, you can start planting.

How to Plant Correctly:

1. Plan the plant arrangement for a balanced look. Place taller plants at the back or center and shorter ones at the front.
2. Use a small spoon or wooden stick to create small holes in the soil.
3. Gently remove the plants from their pots and shake off excess soil around the roots.
4. Place the plants into the designated spots and cover the roots with soil, pressing lightly to secure them.
5. Leave space between plants to allow them to grow properly.

For succulents or cacti, allow the roots to dry for a day before planting to prevent rot.

Step 6: Decorate Your Terrarium

Now you can add decorative elements to enhance the terrarium’s natural beauty.

Common Decorative Materials:

• Small pebbles or gravel for aesthetics.
• Green moss for a soft, natural look.
• Driftwood or dried branches to add depth.
• Small decorative items like mini figurines or crystals for accents.

Avoid overcrowding the terrarium with too many decorations, as this may disrupt its natural look.

Step 7: Water and Place in the Right Spot

Proper watering and placement will help plants thrive and maintain a stable environment inside the terrarium.

How to Water:

• For closed terrariums (with moss and ferns):
  • Lightly mist the plants.
  • Moisture will recycle naturally inside the container.
  • If condensation becomes excessive, open the lid for a while to release humidity.
• For open terrariums (with succulents and cacti):
  • Water sparingly, about once or twice a week.
  • Use a small watering can or dropper to avoid overwatering.

Terrarium Maintenance Tips

Keeping your terrarium healthy and vibrant requires a bit of regular care. By following these simple tips, you can ensure your miniature garden thrives with minimal effort.

Dos

• Check Moisture Levels: It is important to monitor the moisture in your terrarium. The soil should be damp to the touch but never soggy. Overly wet soil can lead to mold growth and root rot, especially in closed terrariums. If the soil feels dry, add a small amount of water and observe how your plants respond.
• Trim Plants Regularly: To keep your terrarium looking neat and prevent overcrowding, trim back any yellowing leaves or overgrown branches. Pruning not only improves the appearance but also encourages healthy new growth. Use small, sharp scissors for precise cuts and avoid damaging healthy parts of the plants.
• Rotate the Container: Since light may come from one direction, rotating your terrarium every few weeks ensures that all plants receive equal light exposure. This helps maintain balanced growth and prevents plants from leaning towards the light source.

Don’ts

• Overwater: One of the most common mistakes in terrarium care is overwatering. Unlike traditional potted plants, terrariums retain moisture longer, so they require less frequent watering. Too much water can cause the roots to suffocate and decay, leading to a soggy, unhealthy environment. Always err on the side of underwatering and adjust as needed.
• Place in Direct Sunlight: Although plants need light to thrive, placing your terrarium in direct sunlight can be harmful. The glass acts like a magnifying lens, intensifying the sun’s rays and potentially burning your plants. Instead, opt for bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight to keep your plants happy without overheating them.
• Use Large Plants: Keeping your terrarium proportional is key to its aesthetic appeal. Large plants can quickly outgrow the space and overshadow smaller plants, disrupting the balance. Choose miniature varieties and trim as needed to maintain a harmonious arrangement.