Learning how to make a terrarium requires a few things: a glass container, soil, cute air plants and succulents, and a bit of creativity to create a beautiful miniature landscape.
If you’re testing out your green thumb, but don’t have the space to add large indoor plants, then a lush, beautiful terrarium can be the perfect alternative to add some greenery into your space. It’s ideal for small space dwellers, beginners, and busy plant parents since they don’t take up too much space, and they’re easy to maintain. It’s also a great hobby, especially during this pandemic, and chic décor for your home.
What Are Terrariums?
By definition, terrariums are a small, enclosed environment for small plants, such as air plants, succulents, ferns, carnivorous plants, dwarf palms, etc. It’s like a mini-greenhouse in glass containers and jars. Terrariums are perfect for adding greenery and beautiful décor to your home.
There are two types of terrariums: a closed terrarium refers to a sealed glass container or jar. It’s ideal for plants who prefers humidity and moist environment. While open terrarium, from the name itself, is generally in an open container or jar. It’s ideal for plants that need proper air circulation to thrive.
DIY Terrarium Supplies
Here’s what you need to create your own terrarium:
- Small Gardening Tools: It will help you place all of the items in your terrarium.
- Glass Container: Choose a glass container according to your plant’s needs. Most gardeners use open glass containers for proper air circulation. Additionally, some terrarium plants like succulents are not suitable for a moist environment.
- Plants: We recommend these plants for your terrarium; air plant, moon valley, starfish plant, nerve plant, assorted succulents, and varied cacti.
- Activated Charcoal: You will only need a thin layer of activated charcoal to keep the water fresh and help fight off bacterial growth.
- Gravel or Pebbles: It will be used as the base of your terrarium. Pebbles or small stones will serve as water drainage for the plants’ roots to avoid root rot.
- Soil: The soil will act as an important layer for your terrarium. Any soil will do, but if you’re planting succulents or cacti, consider using special mixes.
Optional items:
- Decorative Elements
- Spray Bottle
How to Make a Terrarium Step-by-Step
Choose Your Terrarium Plants
The first thing you need to learn how to make a terrarium is the type of plants you’ll use. They should perfectly fit the glass container or jar, and they should thrive well in a humid environment, such as air plants. If you’re going to use succulents, make sure to choose a container with several openings to allow the succulents to completely dry after watering.
Choose Your Container
The next step on how to make a terrarium is to choose the container that will be suitable for your plants. Remember, there are two types of terrariums, and each type will affect your plant’s growth. Most people use open glass containers or jars. You can also reuse mason jars or bowls for your DIY terrarium.
Build Your Layers
The fun part of creating a terrarium is building the layers. For proper drainage, start by covering the bottom with pebbles, gravels, or small stones. Next is to add a thin layer of activated charcoal to keep plants’ water fresh and prevent any bacterial growth in your terrarium.
Then add a layer of potting soil. Any potting soil will do, but consider choosing specialized mixes for succulents and cacti. Make sure to add enough soil, probably at least 2 ½ inches. Check if it’s deep enough for your plants to root into it.
Add Your Plants
Now it’s time to add your plants! Using your tweezers or chopsticks, start planting the largest plant first, then down to the smallest. You can also use gloves to protect your hands from prickly plants. Make sure to prune the roots carefully. Dig a hole for your plant and nestle the plant into the soil. There’s no rule in creating and placing plants in your DIY terrarium. You can play around with the arrangements. Once you’re happy and satisfied with the arrangement, complete the look with pebbles and decorative elements.
Follow a Maintenance Routine
Once your terrarium is complete, it’s important to maintain it by following a care routine. For a closed terrarium, keep the environment moist by giving it a daily spritz. For open terrariums, carefully water them once a week or every two weeks. Keep the soil slightly moist, and make sure to remove any excess water. Don’t forget to prune your plants from time to time. Lastly, place it in a spot where it can get enough sunlight.
Learn how to make a terrarium this 2021. Apart from adding beauty to your home, you can also give it as a gift to your family and friends. Check out our Plant Care blog to learn more about different houseplants and tips on how to keep your plants alive and healthy.
Whatever houseplant you choose to transform your home into a lively oasis, you’ll definitely need a stylish planter to display your plant baby in. No matter what your style, there’s an Omysa planter that will be perfect with your garden and home’s décor. From ceramics to fiberstone, check out Omysa’s Shop and add it to your cart!
