Small Terrariums: Miniature Gardens for Every Space
In today’s fast-paced world, bringing a touch of nature indoors can be incredibly refreshing. Small terrariums offer the perfect solution—they’re compact, low-maintenance, and add a vibrant green accent to any home or office. Whether you’re a plant lover or a beginner, a tiny terrarium is a delightful way to enjoy gardening in a small space.
What is a Small Terrarium?
A terrarium is a miniature garden enclosed (or open) in a glass container, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. Small terrariums, often housed in jars, bowls, or geometric glass containers, are ideal for tabletops, shelves, and desks. They can feature a variety of plants, from air plants and succulents to moss and ferns, depending on the environment.
Why Choose a Small Terrarium?
✅ Space-Saving – Perfect for apartments, offices, or small living spaces.
✅ Low Maintenance – Requires minimal watering and care.
✅ Decorative & Versatile – Adds a natural aesthetic to any interior.
✅ Great for Beginners – Easy to set up and maintain.
Types of Small Terrariums
- Closed Terrariums – Best for moisture-loving plants like ferns, moss, and fittonia. The enclosed environment creates a humid, self-watering system.
- Open Terrariums – Ideal for succulents, cacti, and air plants that prefer dry conditions.
- Mossariums – Focused solely on different moss varieties, creating a lush green carpet effect.
How to Make Your Own Small Terrarium
Materials Needed:
- A small glass container (jar, bowl, or hanging terrarium)
- Small pebbles or gravel (for drainage)
- Activated charcoal (to prevent mold)
- Potting soil (succulent mix for open terrariums, regular soil for closed ones)
- Small plants (succulents, air plants, ferns, or moss)
- Decorative elements (mini rocks, driftwood, figurines)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Layer the Base – Add pebbles for drainage, followed by a thin layer of activated charcoal.
- Add Soil – Place enough soil for the roots to grow (1-2 inches).
- Plant Your Greens – Arrange small plants, leaving space for growth.
- Decorate – Add stones, sand, or tiny ornaments for a personalized touch.
- Water Lightly – For closed terrariums, a light mist is enough. For open ones, water sparingly.
Caring for Your Small Terrarium
🌞 Light: Indirect sunlight is best—avoid direct sun, which can overheat the plants.
💧 Watering: Closed terrariums need very little water (only when condensation disappears). Open terrariums require occasional watering (when soil is dry).
✂ Pruning: Trim overgrown plants to maintain shape.
🔄 Airflow: Open the lid occasionally for closed terrariums to prevent excess moisture.
Best Plants for Small Terrariums
- For Closed Terrariums: Ferns, moss, baby tears, and fittonia.
- For Open Terrariums: Succulents, cacti, air plants, and small echeverias.
Final Thoughts
Small terrariums are a beautiful and effortless way to incorporate greenery into your daily life. Whether you prefer a lush closed terrarium or a desert-themed open one, these tiny gardens bring nature’s charm indoors with minimal upkeep.
🌱 Ready to create your own mini garden? Explore our terrarium kits and supplies to get started today! 🌱
