Banner Terrarium

What is a Terrarium?

A terrarium is a collection of small, decorative plants growing in an enclosed environment. Terrarium containers are typically transparent and provide an opening big enough to allow the gardener to access the plants inside. The best part about a DIY terrarium is that you get to create something one-of-a-kind. This tutorial will cover everything you need to know about how to make a terrarium. From definition and inspiration to creation and care, you’ll be enjoying your miniature garden in no time at all.

Materials

What you'll need

  • Small Stones and Pebbles
  • Activated Charcoal
  • Potting Soil

Let's Get Started

Pebbles

Step 1

Cover the bottom of your terrarium with a 1.5 inch-thick layer of small stones. Small stones will be used as the base of your terrarium. The small stones act as water drainage for the plants’ roots to ensure that excess water doesn’t stay in the soil and cause it to rot.

Charcoal

Step 2

Add activated charcoal to the glass vessel. Use the gardening tools to spread them evenly throughout. The activated charcoal will keep water fresh and fight off any bacterial growth in your terrarium.

Soil

Step 3

Add enough potting soil so that it’s deep enough for your plants to root into it. It is recommend to add a layer that’s about 2.5 inches. For this particular terrarium, 2 inches of potting soil was used.

Plants

Step 4

Now it's time to add your plants. Start by planting your largest plant first. Remove the plant from its container and prune the roots as you would when repotting any plant. Then, make a hole in the soil large enough to fit the plants’ roots. Next, nestle the plant into the soil.

Pebbles

Step 5

After all of your plants are arranged in your glass vessel, complete the look with a layer of pebbles.



Images and directions from Proflowers.com