Ultimate guide to terrariums and create a tiny ecosystem!

The 1960s and 1970s saw the popularity of plants in glass bottles, known as terrariums, and now they're experiencing a resurgence in fashion. It's no wonder: terrariums are not only aesthetically pleasing but also require minimal care. The key to success is giving the plants a strong start. Once the terrarium is set up and decorated, the humidity and temperature remain stable, and the plants inside are shielded from contamination. This self-contained environment creates a closed mini-ecosystem, providing an ideal climate for plant growth.

Discover the universal appeal of a terrarium with plants, making it an ideal gift for both enthusiastic horticulturists and those who don't have a green thumb, alike.

how does a terrarium work?

The terrarium actually develops its own ecosystem. When the terrarium is set up, the soil is moist, which the plants absorb. They evaporate the water through their leaves, causing the terrarium glass to fog up. This creates humidity in the terrarium. This is good for the plants, but it also drips along the glass back to the ground. This means that you will never have to water your terrarium.

However, it is always possible for some moisture to escape through the seal, so keep an eye on your Terrarium to make sure it stays moist. Does the floor look dry? Spray some water on it with a plant sprayer, or give it some water.

how do you make a terrarium yourself?

When you order a terrarium from us, you will receive everything you need at home:

• the stones (drainage)
• the soil (nutrition)
• the glass terrarium (ecosystem)
• a cork lid (with or without LED lights)
• 2, 3 or 4 small plants and also moss (not in all cases)

To make setup a breeze, a comprehensive practical manual is included. You can have your terrarium up and running in just 30 minutes - it's that simple. One minor exception is the soil or substrate, which arrives in a dry brick form that requires some initial hydration. Once you add water, the substrate will be perfectly prepared for your plants to thrive.

which plants are suitable for my terrarium?

Terrariums offer a unique way to bring the outdoors into our homes, providing a beautiful and tranquil addition to our living spaces. Not only do they enhance our surroundings, but they also have numerous benefits, such as purifying the air and promoting relaxation. Whether you're an experienced green thumb or just beginning your gardening adventure, crafting a terrarium can be a delightful and fulfilling experience. A key consideration in this process is choosing the perfect plants for your terrarium. In this blog post, we'll delve into the top plants that thrive in terrarium environments and provide valuable insights for creating a thriving mini-ecosystem.

1. Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Fittonia is an excellent choice for terrariums due to its vibrant and striking foliage. With its boldly patterned leaves in shades of green, pink, and white, it adds a touch of drama to any terrarium. Fittonia prefers indirect light and high humidity, making it a perfect candidate for terrariums.
2. Pilea (Chinese Money Plant): Known for its unique coin-shaped leaves, the Pilea is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in terrariums. It enjoys moderate to bright indirect light and prefers well-draining soil. The Pilea's compact growth and ability to propagate easily make it an ideal choice for a terrarium centerpiece.
3. Peperomia: With its wide variety of foliage colors and textures, Peperomia offers endless possibilities for terrarium designs. These small, compact plants are low-maintenance and enjoy bright, indirect light. They come in various leaf shapes, including heart-shaped, variegated, and trailing. Peperomia's adaptability and resilience make it a favorite among terrarium enthusiasts.
4. Ferns: Ferns are a classic choice for terrariums, as they thrive in moist, humid environments. Their delicate fronds and lacy foliage add an elegant touch to any terrarium. There are numerous fern varieties suitable for terrariums, such as the Maidenhair Fern, Boston Fern, and Staghorn Fern. Ferns prefer indirect light and consistent moisture, making them perfect companions for other terrarium plants.
5. Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii): Also known as mind-your-own-business, Baby Tears is a popular choice for terrarium ground cover. This trailing plant forms a lush carpet of tiny, round leaves, creating a soft and verdant look. Baby Tears thrives in high humidity and indirect light. Its delicate appearance and easy propagation make it an ideal choice for terrariums.
6. Succulents: Although terrariums are often associated with high humidity and moisture-loving plants, succulents can also thrive in these environments. Succulents like Echeverias, Haworthias, and Crassulas have adapted to store water in their leaves, making them more tolerant of drier conditions. They add a unique texture and shape to any terrarium, creating a beautiful contrast with other plants.

When selecting plants for your terrarium, consider their growth habits, light requirements, and moisture needs. A closed terrarium creates a different climate inside the terrarium (subtropical plants) compared to an open bowl with cacti and succulents.

how can i keep my terrarium in good condition?

To maintain a healthy terrarium, consider several factors to achieve a balance. Ensure the terrarium has the right amount of water, neither too much nor too little. A stable location is crucial, so avoid placing it near heaters, draughts, or direct sunlight. Instead, opt for a spot with indirect light. Before moving your terrarium, double-check that it's in the right spot and has a good balance. Once you've found the perfect spot, leave it there to maintain the balance.

what if my terrarium is getting too crowded?

When you achieve the perfect balance, your plants will thrive and may even grow longer on their own. A full terrarium can be a beautiful sight, but you may prefer not to have one. If that's the case, it's easy to temporarily open the terrarium to prune and tend to your plants. You may also discover new growth, including baby plants, which can be repotted in water to develop roots and then transferred to soil. :-)

the complete diy terrarium

Diy, which stands for "do it yourself," refers to the process of creating something on your own. So, what does this entail? A diy terrarium kit typically includes all the necessary components to assemble your own complete terrarium in one convenient package. Notably, terrariums often feature specially selected plants that are specifically suited for this type of environment. These plants possess unique characteristics that make them thrive in high-humidity conditions, which they naturally prefer.

Unleash your imagination and experiment with unique plant pairings to craft a one-of-a-kind miniature world in your terrarium. Don't be hesitant to combine plants in unexpected ways to create a truly distinctive atmosphere. With the right selection of plants and proper care, your terrarium will thrive and become a stunning focal point in your home, bringing a touch of the outdoors inside.

home of terrariums

In Valencia, in the Ruzafa neighborhood, you'll find our store for terrariums, plants, and flowers. Here you can find everything you need to create your dream terrarium. Florespaña: home of terrariums.