Plant terrariums are a beautiful way to bring a touch of nature into your home. They are easy to make, low-maintenance, and provide a self-sustaining environment for your plants. Plus, creating your own terrarium can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating your own terrariums, perfect for beginners.

plant terrariums with all the materials needed to create one

Materials you will need:

  • Glass container (such as a jar or vase)
  • Gravel or rocks
  • Activated charcoal
  • Potting soil
  • Small plants or succulents
  • Decorative items (such as moss, pebbles, or figurines)

Step 1: Choose your container

The first step is to choose your container. You can use any glass container, such as a jar or vase, as long as it has an opening large enough for you to work with. You can also find specific terrarium containers at garden centers or online.

woman adding rocks to the bottom of a triangular plant terrarium

Step 2: Add a layer of gravel or rocks

The next step is to add a layer of gravel or rocks to the bottom of your container. This will provide drainage for your plants and prevent them from sitting in water. The layer should be about 1-2 inches deep.

Step 3: Add activated charcoal

Next, add a thin layer of activated charcoal over the rocks. Activated charcoal helps to absorb toxins and odors in the terrarium, keeping the environment healthy for your plants. The layer should be about ¼ inch deep.

woman adding soil to a plant terrarium

Step 4: Add potting soil

Add a layer of potting soil over the charcoal. The soil should be deep enough to allow your plants to root, but not too deep that it touches the rocks.

woman creating a plant terrarium with green succulents

Step 5: Plant your plants

Now it’s time to plant your plants. Choose plants that are small enough to fit in your container and that prefer a humid environment. You can also use succulents, which require less water. Arrange the plants in the soil, making sure to leave enough space between them to allow for growth.

woman creating plant terrariums with succulents on a wooden table

Step 6: Decorate your terrarium

Once your plants are in place, it’s time to decorate your terrarium. You can add moss, pebbles, or figurines to add a personal touch. Be careful not to overcrowd your terrarium, as this can prevent your plants from getting enough light and air.

Step 7: Water your terrarium

Water your terrarium sparingly, as the closed environment will retain moisture. Use a spray bottle or a watering can with a narrow spout to avoid overwatering.

succulents used to create a plant terrarium sit on a wooden table

Step 8: Care for your terrarium

Your terrarium is a self-sustaining ecosystem, but it still needs care. Keep your terrarium in a location that gets indirect light, and make sure to rotate it every few weeks to ensure even growth. Trim any dead leaves or stems, and remove any excess water from the container.

Creating your own plant terrariums can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Follow these simple steps, and you will have a beautiful piece of nature to enjoy in your home. Remember to choose the right container, add layers for drainage and filtration, choose the right plants, and decorate to your heart’s content. With just a little care, your terrarium will thrive for years to come.

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