cacti
• succulents
LAYER SIX: TOPDRESSING
This layer is purely decorative. You can cover the substrate layer with a more attractive topper. Use a bamboo skewer or wood dowel to spread the medium between plants and cover the soil completely.
Topdressing Mediums
• sand
• pebbles
• crushed glass
• crushed seashells
LAYER SEVEN: DECORATIVE ELEMENTS
Decorative elements are not always necessary but they can add character to a themed terrarium!
Decorative Mediums
• seashells
• figurines
• crystals
• rocks
• sea fans
• reindeer moss
VESSELS
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Traditionally, when we think of terrariums, we picture thick green foliage in a sealed glass vessel. But let’s face it: there are so many more options for displaying plants these days that it’s worth breaking the mold. Before deciding on an appropriate vessel for your terrarium, you’ll want to ask yourself a few questions: Where will the terrarium live? On a nightstand, so it’s the first thing you see in the morning? On a coffee table, for all to see? Are you all out of counter space? Then how about suspended from a wall or ceiling? Once you have the location all figured out, think about what type of vessel would work best in that space. A vessel with a flat bottom works best on a shelf, a vessel offering unobstructed 360-degree views is the perfect centerpiece for a coffee table, and a vessel with a hook is perfect for stringing up anywhere around your home.
On average, mosses prefer some shade, so be sure to relocate any moss terrariums from window ledges after you’re finished admiring them. Succulents, on the other hand, love lots of sun.
The coffeepot terrarium that started it all for me!
REPURPOSED VESSELS
I’m constantly on the hunt for a drainage-free, watertight, transparent beauty. Take a good look around your home: I’m sure you will find some glass containers to repurpose into charming terrarium displays. Some of my favorite household items to use include mason jars, wine glasses, an old coffeepot, vases, and glass bottles. Terrarium purists will shake their heads and tell you that acrylic vessels are taboo. However, if you find an open vessel with good airflow and a watertight bottom, you can certainly turn it into a place for plants.
WHERE TO SHOP
If you’re looking for something distinctive you will find an excellent collection of glass containers at stores like IKEA, West Elm, World Market, HomeGoods, and Michael’s craft stores. For the more adventurous, acrylic containers are another medium to consider. Antique shops and thrift stores are gold mines when it comes to finding unique glassware. But steer clear of colored glass. While I love to collect it, I wouldn’t put my plants in colored glass because they would have a hard time registering the right spectrum of sunlight they need to grow.
PRACTICAL VESSELS FOR YOUR PLANT SPECIES
Cacti, succulents, and air plants need good airflow. On occasion, you may see these plants in closed containers for décor purposes. However, this is not a practical solution for an extended period. Vessels with an opening or no walls at all are your best options.
Tropical plants, mosses, and ferns enjoy the high-humidity environment of a closed vessel. But some species can thrive in open containers as well.
HEADROOM
When considering a small vessel for a mini terrarium, keep in mind that all plants need room to grow. The last thing you want to do is cram plants into a space they will outgrow in a week.
Airflow is important to succulents.
RECOMMENDED TERRARIUM VESSELS
Geometric. These vessels are very popular and give off a modern vibe. Slow-growing cacti and succulents work best in these vessels. Haworthias are my favorites to plant in this type of vessel.
Cube. You can have fun adding colorful layers of sand or rocks to a vessel like this. Great for succulents, cacti, and tropical plants that do not require high humidity.
Fishbowl. A classic terrarium vessel, easy to source from any pet store.
Coffeepot. Raid the kitchen for unused glassware! A coffeepot can make a nice home for ferns and mosses.
Apothecary jar. An old favorite, it’s easy to imagine ferns in this type of vessel. Tropical plants and mosses will also love this closed environment.
Bottle. Not very wide but does provide some headroom. Appropriate for mini marimo balls, small ferns, and mosses.
Cloche. An elegant vessel ready to show off your next orchid display.
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