Terrarium Planting
How to Plant a Terrarium: A Step-by-Step Guide
The trend for creating tiny gardens under glass continues to grow. A terrarium is simple to make, easy to care for and make gorgeous gifts.
Our terrarium room is sure to inspire you to create your own mini landscape. Here you’ll find everything you need to get started, along with a step-by-step guide of how to build your own.
Choose between open or closed containers, flowering or foliage plants and decorate stones or crystals.
You’ll also discover a range of ready-planted terrariums that can be purchased without any fuss or used to help guide your creation!
Follow our step by step guide below to make your own!
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start planting your terrarium, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need a clear glass or plastic container with a lid, pebbles or gravel, activated charcoal, potting soil, various plants, decorative elements like stones or figurines, and a spray bottle for watering. Make sure your container is clean and dry before you begin. All your supplies are available in our Houseplants Department!
Step 2: Layer the Base
Start by adding a layer of pebbles or gravel to the bottom of your container. This layer will help with drainage and prevent water from pooling at the roots of your plants.
Step 3: Add Potting Soil
The depth of this layer will depend on the size of your container and the types of plants you’re using. Generally, aim for 1-2 inches of terrarium potting compost. Use a spoon or small trowel to create a level of surface for planting.
Step 4: Plant Your Selection
Now comes the fun part—planting! Select small, compatible plants that thrive in a humid environment. Succulents, air plants, and mosses are popular choices. Remove excess compost from the plant roots. Create small holes in the soil using your fingers or a small tool, just big enough for the root and gently place your plants into the holes. Arrange them creatively, keeping in mind their growth habits and the aesthetics of your terrarium.
Step 5: Decorate and Water
Add decorative elements like stones, tiny figurines, or colored sand to enhance the visual appeal of your terrarium. Once everything is in place, give your terrarium a light misting with a spray bottle to settle the soil and hydrate the plants. Be careful not to overwater; terrariums require very little moisture.
Step 6: Maintain Your Terrarium
Place your newly planted terrarium in a location with indirect sunlight, as too much direct sunlight can create excessive heat inside the container. Keep an eye on the moisture levels; if condensation forms on the glass, reduce watering. Prune your plants as they grow to maintain the desired shape and size. If any plants show signs of decline, remove them to prevent the spread of disease.
Planting a terrarium is an enjoyable and creative way to bring nature indoors. With the right materials and a little care, you can create a stunning, self-sustaining ecosystem that requires minimal maintenance. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have your very own piece of green paradise to admire and enjoy. Happy terrarium gardening!
