Welcome to my terrarium tips blog! In this post, I’ll share ten crucial tips that will help you create beautiful and healthy terrariums. Make sure you stick around until the end, as you won’t want to miss any of these valuable insights.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Container
First things first, the container. Not all containers are created equal when it comes to terrariums. A narrow-mouthed jar might look cool, but it’ll make it a nightmare to add plants and maintain. A drinking glass can be a great option, but only if you can find a suitable lid! Otherwise, your precious plants will dry out in a flash.
My recommendation for beginners? Go for a clip-lid jar. It’s wide enough for easy access, and the lid is included, saving you the hassle of sourcing one separately.
Tip 2: Use a Drainage Layer
This layer is crucial! It’s essentially a false bottom made of rocks, gravel, or stones, and it’s a lifesaver for your terrarium. Why? It prevents excess water from sitting in the substrate, which can lead to stagnation and harm your plants.
While experienced terrarium makers can sometimes skip the drainage layer in smaller setups, for beginners, it’s always a good idea to have one in place. You can use materials like fine aquarium gravel, pea gravel, or my personal favorite, leca. If you’re on a budget, just make sure you clean any rocks you find outdoors thoroughly before using them.
Tip 3: Opt for Quality Terrarium Substrate
The substrate is the lifeblood of your terrarium, so choosing the right one is essential. Here’s my go-to mix that I’ve used for thousands of terrariums:
2 parts sphagnum moss
1 part coco fiber
1/4 part orchid bark
1/4 part charcoal
1/4 part worm castings
This mix strikes a perfect balance. It’s moisture-retentive, nutrient-rich, well-draining, and resistant to compression. I use this for everything, from small terrariums to large vivariums!
Don’t worry if you can’t mix your own; ready-made substrates are readily available at reptile shops and online.
Tip 4: Incorporate Hardscape Elements
Hardscape is all about aesthetics, but it plays a vital role in creating a natural-looking ecosystem. Think of it like the foundation for your miniature world.
I love using geostone for cliff faces, dragonstone for dramatic structures, and lava rock in various shades of red and black. Don’t forget about wood! Spiderwood branches, driftwood, and cork bark all add wonderful texture and character.
You can find hardscape at aquarium, reptile, and garden centers, or online. But if you’re on a budget, head outside and find your own rocks and wood responsibly. Just remember to clean them thoroughly before using them!
Tip 5: Choose Suitable Plants
Not all plants thrive in terrariums due to high humidity. Some great options include Fittonia, known for its vibrant colors and easy growth, oak leaf creeping fig for its detailed, small leaves, and immersed-grown aquatic plants like Alternanthera reineckii. Using a variety of plants with different leaf shapes, sizes, and textures can create a more natural and visually appealing ecosystem.
Tip 6: Regularly Trim Moss and Plants
While it’s a good thing to see your terrarium flourish, unchecked growth can lead to problems. It can become too crowded, and plants might start to struggle for light and space.
Regularly trim the moss and plants, especially in older terrariums. It’s like giving your miniature world a little makeover!
Tip 7: Clean the Glass
As your terrarium ages, algae and dead plant matter can accumulate on the glass, blocking light. Regularly cleaning the inside of the glass with a wet paper towel ensures your plants receive the light they need. Neglecting this can result in an unattractive, light-blocking buildup.
Tip 8: Manage Lighting
Direct sunlight is a big no-no for terrariums. The intense heat and light can cook your ecosystem. Instead, find a bright spot in indirect sunlight, or use LED lights for consistent illumination. Aquarium lights are also a great option, especially if you have multiple setups.
Tip 9: Water Appropriately
Even in airtight jars, terrariums need occasional watering as plants use up water. Signs that your terrarium needs water include dry substrate, crispy moss, and yellowing leaves. Use a small spray bottle or pipette to water until the substrate is damp but not soggy.
Tip 10: Be Patient and Enjoy the Process
Terrarium-making is a journey. Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn as you go. It takes time for a terrarium to establish itself, so be patient and enjoy watching your little ecosystem thrive.
I hope these tips help you on your terrarium journey! Stay tuned for more terrarium-related content on the blog. Happy planting!