Plant Selection Terrariums: Easy Guide & Tips

Welcome to our comprehensive guide about plant selection for terrariums. Terrariums are miniature ecosystems that add a touch of greenery to any space. In this guide, you will find easy tips to help you choose the right plants for your terrarium and create a thriving green oasis.

Key Takeaways:

• Choosing the right plants is crucial for creating a healthy and attractive terrarium.
• Consider factors such as plant size, light requirements, and humidity levels when selecting plants.
• Low-maintenance plants are an excellent choice for beginners or those with busy schedules.
• Arranging plants to create an aesthetically pleasing and balanced terrarium is essential.
• Proper plant care for watering, fertilizing, and troubleshooting is vital for the long-term success of your terrarium.

Understanding Terrariums

Before you begin creating your own terrarium, it’s important to understand what a terrarium actually is. Simply put, a terrarium is a closed or open container that contains plants. What makes terrariums unique from other plant containers is that they are self-contained ecosystems, meaning that they function as their own tiny worlds, with each element of the terrarium working together to create an environment that is conducive to plant growth.

There are a few different types of terrariums. The most common type is a closed or sealed terrarium, which is airtight and contains its own water cycle. These terrariums are ideal for moisture-loving plants, as they create a humid environment inside the container. The other type is an open terrarium, which allows for air circulation and is better suited for plants that prefer drier conditions.

Whether you choose an open or closed terrarium, it’s important to choose the right container and plants to ensure success. As you’ll learn in the next sections, there are several factors to consider when selecting a terrarium and the perfect plants to fill it with.

Choosing the Right Terrarium

When it comes to choosing terrariums, there are various factors to consider to ensure the perfect fit:

• Size: Depending on the number and size of plants you plan to include, you’ll need to select a terrarium that’s big enough to accommodate them.
• Shape: Round, square, or geometric, the shape of your terrarium can influence the overall aesthetic and functionality of your miniature ecosystem.
• Materials: Glass, plastic, or metal, knowing which materials best suit your terrarium’s use and maintenance needs is essential.

Consider the location in which you plan to display your terrarium and its intended purpose. Will it be for personal enjoyment, a gift, or a decorative addition to a specific space?

Below is a breakdown of common terrarium sizes and ideal uses:

Terrarium Size	Ideal Use
Small Terrariums (under 4”)	Ideal for small homes and apartments and make great gifts.
Medium Terrariums (4”-8”)	These terrariums can be used as centerpieces or an addition to any small, medium or large room.
Large Terrariums (over 8”)	Ideal for large rooms and perfect for offices, schools, and commercial spaces.

Materials

When selecting the appropriate glass for your terrarium, select a glass with a thickness of at least 3mm to prevent breakage.

Plastic terrariums are an excellent alternative to glass and are typically less expensive. However, they are prone to scratches and discoloration over time.

Metal or wire terrariums are suitable for outdoor terrariums and can withstand harsh environments, but they can be heavier and more difficult to manage.

Tip: Choose a terrarium that complements your décor, from sleek and modern to rustic and natural. Your terrarium should be a focal point of your room, not just a mere decoration.

Ideal Terrarium Conditions

Creating the perfect environment is essential for the health and vitality of your terrarium plants. Keep these ideal terrarium conditions in mind:

• Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 60-80°F to ensure your plants thrive.
• Humidity: Terrariums require high humidity levels of at least 70%. You can measure humidity with a hygrometer and adjust by misting or leaving the lid off for a short period.
• Light: The amount of light your terrarium needs will depend on the type of plants you have. As a general rule, place your terrarium in bright, indirect light. Too much direct light can scorch leaves, while too little can cause weak growth.

Keeping these factors in mind will help ensure that your terrarium plants flourish. For more specific information on the needs of individual plants, consult an expert or refer to a guidebook.

Types of Terrarium Plants

When it comes to choosing the right plants for your terrarium, there are plenty of options available to suit your preference and miniature garden vision. Whether you want to create a lush jungle or a desert landscape, here are some of the best types of plants that thrive in terrariums:

Plant Type	Lighting Requirements	Watering Needs
Ferns	Indirect sunlight or low light	Moist soil, but not waterlogged
Succulents and cacti	Bright, direct sunlight	Slightly moist soil, allow soil to dry between watering
Creeping fig	Low to medium indirect sunlight	Allow soil to dry out before watering
Polka dot plant	Indirect sunlight, avoid direct sunlight	Moist soil, keep soil consistently moist, not waterlogged
Snake plant	Low to bright indirect sunlight	Allow soil to mostly dry out before watering
Miniature orchid	Indirect sunlight, avoid direct sunlight	Moist soil, but not waterlogged

Tips for Selecting Terrarium Plants

Choose plants that have similar light and moisture requirements to ensure they thrive in the same ecosystem. Consider the size and growth rate of each plant to ensure they don’t outgrow the terrarium and become overcrowded. Additionally, pick plants with interesting textures and colors to create a visually stimulating environment.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that while terrariums can create a unique microclimate, it is still important to research the specific plant needs to ensure they thrive.

Low Maintenance Terrarium Plants

Creating and maintaining a terrarium requires some effort, but with the right plants, you can minimize your maintenance obligations. If you’re short on time or just prefer low-maintenance plants, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a list of top easy-care plants to add to your terrarium:

Plant	Light Requirements	Watering Needs	Other Considerations
Succulents	Bright light, indirect sunlight	Water when soil dries out	Well-draining soil
Air plants	Bright, indirect sunlight or fluorescent light	Soak in water once a week, mist occasionally	No soil required, attach to rocks or wood
Pothos	Low to medium light	Water when soil feels dry to the touch	Can grow in water or soil
Sansevieria	Bright, indirect sunlight or low light	Water sparingly, when soil is dry or starting to feel dry	Well-draining soil, avoid overwatering
Moss	Low to medium light	Spray with water regularly to keep moist	Requires high humidity

By selecting low maintenance plants, you can spend less time worrying about upkeep and more time enjoying the beauty of your terrarium. Take care to ensure that your plants still have their specific lighting, soil and watering needs met for optimal growth!

Terrarium Plant Arrangement

Creating an eye-catching terrarium is all about plant arrangement. By using the right techniques, you can achieve a balanced and visually pleasing look.

When arranging your terrarium plants, consider the following:

• Height Variations: Incorporate plants with varying heights to create depth and dimension.
• Color Combinations: Choose plants with complementary colors for a cohesive look. Keep in mind that different shades of green can also add visual interest.
• Plant Placement: Place taller plants in the back and shorter ones in the front to create symmetry.

Experiment with different arrangements until you find one that suits your style and preferences. For inspiration, search for terrarium plant arrangement ideas online or browse through plant arrangement books and magazines.

“A well-arranged terrarium is a miniature garden that brings joy and tranquility to any space.”

Plant Care Tips for Terrariums

Once you’ve selected the perfect plants for your terrarium, it’s important to take good care of them so that they thrive. Here are some essential plant care tips to keep in mind:

• Watering: Terrariums are self-contained environments, so it’s important not to overwater your plants. Keep the soil slightly moist, but not wet, and avoid getting water on the leaves.
• Fertilizing: While some terrarium plants don’t require fertilization, others benefit from a light dose of plant food every few months. Use a balanced fertilizer and dilute it to half-strength before applying.
• Light: Different plants have varying light requirements, so it’s important to research your specific plants to ensure they are getting the appropriate amount of light. If your terrarium is not getting enough natural light, consider using a grow light.
• Air circulation: Terrariums need some airflow to keep them healthy. Consider opening the lid for a few minutes each day or adding a small fan to improve circulation.
• Pruning: To keep your terrarium looking neat, remove any dead or yellow leaves and trim back overgrown stems. This also encourages healthy growth and prevents disease.

By following these simple tips, you’ll help ensure that your terrarium plants stay healthy and beautiful for years to come.

Terrarium Plant Propagation

One of the many benefits of having a terrarium is the opportunity for plant propagation. This is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. It’s an excellent way to expand your collection and share the joy of terrarium gardening with others.

Types of Propagation

There are several methods of propagation that work well for terrarium plants:

• Division: This involves separating a plant into smaller sections and replanting them in separate containers. It works well for plants with multiple stems or clumps of foliage.
• Leaf Cuttings: This method involves taking a leaf from a plant and placing it in soil or water to allow it to grow roots and eventually a new plant.
• Stem Cuttings: This involves taking a piece of stem with a few leaves and allowing it to grow roots, eventually creating a new plant.

Propagation Tips

Propagation requires patience and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Choose healthy parent plants with no signs of disease.
2. Use a sterile cutting tool to prevent the spread of disease.
3. Take cuttings early in the day and keep them moist until ready to plant.
4. Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for propagation.
5. Provide adequate light and temperature for the cuttings.
6. Be patient – it can take several weeks or even months for plants to establish new roots.

“Plant propagation is a rewarding process that allows you to create new life from existing plants. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can expand your terrarium collection and share the joy of gardening with others.”

Conclusion

Creating a terrarium is a fun and rewarding experience that can add a touch of nature to any living space. By following this easy guide, you can select the right plants, choose the perfect terrarium, and provide the optimal conditions for a thriving ecosystem. Remember to arrange your plants in a visually pleasing way and care for them regularly to ensure their longevity.

With a little effort and attention to detail, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of a miniature garden right in your own home or office. So what are you waiting for? Start your terrarium journey today!

FAQ

What are terrariums?

Terrariums are self-contained ecosystems that house small plants. They are enclosed glass containers that create a miniature environment for plants to thrive.

What types of terrariums are there?

There are different types of terrariums, including closed terrariums and open terrariums. Closed terrariums have a lid that traps moisture, creating a humid environment. Open terrariums have no lid and allow for better airflow.

How do I choose the right terrarium?

When selecting a terrarium, consider factors such as size, shape, and materials. Choose a size that accommodates your desired plants and fits in your space. Opt for a shape that suits the plants you want to include. Select quality materials that are durable and provide good visibility.

What are the ideal conditions for a terrarium?

Terrariums thrive in conditions that mimic a plant’s natural habitat. This includes providing the right temperature, humidity, and light. Most terrarium plants prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, humidity levels around 50-70%, and indirect sunlight or artificial light.

What types of plants are suitable for terrariums?

There is a wide variety of plants suitable for terrariums, including ferns, mosses, succulents, and air plants. Choose plants that are small, compact, and have similar care requirements.

What are some low maintenance plants for terrariums?

If you’re looking for low maintenance plants, consider options like snake plants, pothos, and spider plants. These plants require minimal care and can thrive in the terrarium environment.

How should I arrange the plants in my terrarium?

When arranging plants, create height variations by placing taller plants towards the back and shorter plants towards the front. Consider color combinations and textures for an aesthetically pleasing look. Position plants with similar light and humidity needs together.

How do I care for plants in a terrarium?

Proper care for terrarium plants includes watering when the soil feels dry, avoiding overwatering, and providing adequate light. Fertilize plants sparingly and monitor for any signs of pests or disease.

Can I propagate plants in terrariums?

Yes, you can propagate plants in terrariums. Explore methods such as division, leaf cuttings, or stem cuttings to expand your terrarium collection or share plants with others.