Terrariums are miniature indoor gardens that create a self-sustaining ecosystem, and they’ve become a popular trend in home decor, gardening, and even office spaces. These glass containers, which can range in size from small jars to large glass tanks, house a variety of plants that thrive in a controlled environment. The idea behind terrariums is to create a small, enclosed world where plants and sometimes even small animals can live and grow, offering beauty, tranquility, and a touch of nature indoors.
One of the key elements to creating a beautiful and healthy terrarium is choosing the right plants. Not all plants are suitable for life in a glass container, and it’s important to select species that thrive in the humid, often low-light conditions inside a terrarium. This article will guide you through the best plants for terrariums, how to care for them, and tips for creating a thriving miniature ecosystem.
Table of Contents
What Are Terrarium Plants?
Terrarium plants are plant species that are well-suited for growing in glass enclosures with high humidity and low air circulation. These plants thrive in the moisture-retaining, somewhat isolated environment that a terrarium provides. Typically, terrarium plants are small, slow-growing species that can tolerate the humid, often low-light conditions found inside closed glass containers.
The right plants for a terrarium are typically shade-loving, moisture-loving, and slow-growing. They should also be relatively small in size, as a terrarium is usually a confined space.
Why Create a Terrarium?
Terrariums are a beautiful way to bring nature into your home. They offer a host of benefits, including:
- Low Maintenance: Once set up, terrariums require minimal care, making them perfect for people who may not have the time or expertise for traditional gardening.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Terrariums provide an opportunity to create a living, dynamic piece of decor. The glass containers give the illusion of a miniature world, perfect for displaying in any room.
- Improved Air Quality: Like other plants, terrarium plants purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They can improve indoor air quality, making them ideal for offices or homes.
- Educational Value: Terrariums are excellent for teaching kids (or adults) about ecosystems, photosynthesis, and plant care. They provide a hands-on learning experience.
Types of Terrarium Plants
When it comes to choosing plants for a terrarium, it’s important to consider factors like humidity, light levels, and the size of the container. Here are some of the best plants for terrariums:
1. Ferns
Ferns are one of the most popular choices for terrariums because they thrive in humid environments and prefer indirect light. Their lush, delicate fronds add texture and a natural look to any terrarium. Some popular fern varieties for terrariums include:
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): This classic fern is known for its feathery, bright green fronds. It does well in a humid environment and needs indirect light to grow.
- Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum): With its delicate, fan-shaped fronds, the Maidenhair fern adds a whimsical touch to terrariums.
- Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus): The Bird’s Nest fern has a rosette of broad, smooth leaves, making it a standout in any terrarium design.
2. Mosses
Mosses are perfect for terrariums because they thrive in humid environments and don’t need much light to grow. They provide an excellent ground cover that helps retain moisture in the soil. Popular moss varieties for terrariums include:
- Sheet Moss (Hypnum spp.): A common moss species that’s easy to care for and ideal for covering the bottom of a terrarium.
- Cushion Moss (Leucobryum glaucum): Known for its soft, cushion-like appearance, this moss creates a beautiful, velvety texture in terrariums.
3. Succulents
While most plants that thrive in terrariums prefer high humidity, some succulent species can adapt well to the environment. Succulents need less moisture than most plants in a terrarium and prefer dry conditions, which can make them a good option for an open or semi-closed terrarium. Examples include:
- Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum spp.): These small, rosette-forming succulents are perfect for mini terrariums.
- Jade Plant (Crassula ovata): This small succulent with thick, waxy leaves can survive in a semi-dry environment.
4. Air Plants (Tillandsia)
Air plants are a unique addition to any terrarium because they don’t need soil to grow. They absorb water and nutrients through their leaves, making them perfect for small terrariums where soil might be too cramped or overbearing. Air plants do well in indirect light and should be misted regularly.
5. Peperomia
Peperomia plants are known for their small size, beautiful foliage, and ability to thrive in terrariums. They are hardy, adaptable, and don’t need much attention. Some popular varieties for terrariums include:
- Peperomia obtusifolia (Baby Rubber Plant): Known for its thick, glossy leaves, this peperomia species can tolerate lower light levels and humidity.
- Peperomia caperata (Emerald Ripple Peperomia): With striking, wrinkled foliage, this plant adds texture and contrast to any terrarium.
6. Pilea
Pilea plants, also known as Chinese Money Plants, have round, coin-shaped leaves that create a distinctive look in terrariums. These plants are compact and grow well in humid conditions, making them ideal for smaller setups.
7. Coleus
Coleus plants are vibrant, colorful plants that can add a splash of red, pink, purple, or yellow to your terrarium. While they may need more light than some of the other options, they can thrive in bright, indirect light.
How to Create a Terrarium
Creating a terrarium is relatively easy, and the process can be a fun, creative project. Here are some basic steps to guide you:
- Choose Your Container: The first step is selecting a container. Glass jars, vases, or fish tanks are common choices. The size of the container will determine how many plants you can include.
- Add Drainage: Since terrariums are sealed containers, it’s essential to have good drainage to prevent root rot. Start with a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom of your container.
- Add Activated Charcoal: A thin layer of activated charcoal will help keep the terrarium free from odors and mold. This step is especially important for closed terrariums.
- Add Potting Soil: Use a good-quality potting mix appropriate for the plants you’ve chosen. For a moss terrarium, you can use sphagnum moss as the base layer.
- Plant Your Plants: Carefully arrange your plants in the container. Start with the larger plants at the back and the smaller ones at the front, ensuring each one has enough room to grow.
- Add Decorative Elements: You can add small decorative items, like rocks, figurines, or shells, to create a personalized touch.
- Watering: Water lightly. Closed terrariums don’t need frequent watering, as the moisture will recycle inside the container. Open terrariums may need more attention, especially if you’ve chosen succulents.
- Placement: Place your terrarium in a spot with indirect light. Most terrarium plants do best with moderate, diffused light.
Terrarium Care Tips
- Watering: Avoid overwatering your terrarium. Closed terrariums should be watered sparingly, while open terrariums may require more frequent watering. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.
- Humidity and Ventilation: If your terrarium is closed, open it occasionally to allow for air circulation. If it’s an open terrarium, make sure it remains in a humid, moisture-retaining environment.
- Pruning: Trim plants as needed to prevent them from becoming too crowded. Most terrarium plants grow slowly, but pruning ensures that the plants have enough space to grow and that the terrarium doesn’t become overrun.
- Cleaning: Wipe the glass periodically to prevent dirt buildup and algae growth. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put animals in my terrarium?
Yes, you can add small animals like hermit crabs, small lizards, or even snails to a terrarium. However, ensure that the plants you choose are non-toxic to animals, and research the specific needs of the animal to create a safe environment.
2. How much light do terrarium plants need?
Most terrarium plants thrive with bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause the plants to overheat and dry out, especially in a closed terrarium. Keep your terrarium in a spot where it receives filtered light.
3. Can I use any type of plant in a terrarium?
No, not all plants are suitable for terrariums. Choose plants that thrive in high humidity and low-light conditions. Avoid plants that grow too large or require a lot of light, as they may not survive in a small, enclosed space.
4. How do I prevent mold in my terrarium?
To prevent mold, make sure your terrarium
has proper ventilation. If you have a closed terrarium, occasionally open the lid to allow air circulation. Also, avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can promote mold growth.
5. How do I know if my terrarium plants are happy?
Healthy terrarium plants should have vibrant foliage, no yellowing leaves, and should be growing slowly. If plants are wilting, turning yellow, or growing too quickly, this could indicate overwatering, inadequate light, or a need for pruning.
Conclusion
Terrariums are a beautiful and fun way to enjoy the beauty of plants indoors, creating tiny, self-sustaining ecosystems right in your home. By choosing the right plants and following a few simple care guidelines, you can create a lush, thriving miniature garden that enhances any room. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner gardener, terrariums are an accessible and rewarding way to bring the outdoors inside.
