What is Terrarium Gardening?

Terrarium gardening is the art of growing small plants inside a sealed or open glass container, creating a self-sustaining or controlled environment. It’s like having your own miniature garden that can be customized and maintained indoors, making it perfect for people with limited space or those who want to bring nature indoors.

Types of Terrariums

• Open Terrariums: Ideal for plants that prefer a dry environment, such as succulents and air plants. They allow airflow and are easier to maintain in terms of mold control.
• Closed Terrariums: These create a humid, tropical environment. They’re great for plants like ferns and mosses, as they thrive in moisture-rich surroundings.
• Hanging Terrariums: A fun way to add vertical greenery to your space, these can be open or closed, suspended from the ceiling or walls.
• Aquatic Terrariums: A water-based variation that incorporates both land and aquatic plants, often involving fish and other small aquatic creatures.

What You Need to Get Started

Creating a terrarium is easy and requires just a few simple materials:

• A container (mason jar, fishbowl, or any upcycled glass or plastic item)
• Potting soil
• Horticultural or activated charcoal (for drainage and odor control)
• Plants (like succulents, mosses, ferns, or air plants)
• Optional natural items like rocks, sand, or small decorative figures

With this basic list, you’re ready to create your own terrarium, but the possibilities are endless once you get the hang of it!

Putting It All Together: Making Your First Terrarium

• Layer ½ inch gravel or rocks at the bottom.
• Sprinkle activated charcoal or mix it into the soil.
• Fill with potting soil, adding perlite if needed.
• Plant, leaving room to grow, and water lightly.

Want to Know More?

Check out our Terrarium Gardening workshops, available in-person or online!