Easy Small Terrarium DIY Projects to Liven Up Your Home

A beautifully designed closed glass terrarium with lush green plants and decorative stones, placed on a wooden table in a cozy, well-lit living space.

Ever feel like your space is missing something? Maybe it’s looking a little... lifeless? The fix is easier than you think—tiny, self-sustaining terrariums!

These miniature gardens bring a splash of green without the commitment of high-maintenance plants.

Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make, even if you’ve never kept a plant alive before.

Let’s dive into how you can create your own lush, low-maintenance masterpiece.

Why Terrariums? (Besides Looking Amazing)

These tiny ecosystems do more than just sit there looking pretty. They actually work for you:

✅ Cleaner Air – Plants absorb toxins, leaving you with fresher air.

✅ Less Stress – Studies show greenery reduces anxiety and boosts focus.

✅ Minimal Effort – No daily watering or sunlight stress (perfect for forgetful plant parents!).

And let’s be real—who doesn’t want a mini rainforest on their desk?

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

Before you grab the nearest glass jar, make sure you have these essentials:

🟢 Glass Container – Any clear jar, bowl, or vase will work. Check out Bunnings or thrift stores for unique finds.

🟢 Substrate Layers – This is key for plant health! You’ll need:

Rocks or pebbles (for drainage)
Activated charcoal (to keep things fresh)
Potting mix (specific to your plant choice)

🟢 The Right Plants – Choose based on your climate and lifestyle:

Plant Type	Best For	Watering
Succulents	Bright, dry spots	Every 2-3 weeks
Air Plants	Low-light offices	Mist weekly
Ferns	Humid rooms (like bathrooms)	Keep soil moist

“Always rinse your container before planting to avoid mold,” advises Aussie landscape designer Mia Tran.

Closed vs. Open Terrariums: Which is Right for You?

Not sure whether to go for a sealed or open setup? Here’s a quick guide:

🔹 Closed Terrariums – Perfect for ferns, moss, and humidity-loving plants. They recycle water, so you barely have to touch them.

🔹 Open Terrariums – Ideal for succulents and cacti. More airflow, less moisture, but requires occasional watering.

Pick based on your space and how much effort you want to put in (spoiler: not much!).

Fun DIY Terrarium Ideas for Every Room

📌 Bathroom Bliss (Closed Terrariums) – A steamy bathroom is perfect for ferns and moss. Add layers of charcoal and pebbles to keep humidity balanced.

📌 Kitchen Herb Garden (Open Terrariums) – A mini herb station on your windowsill with thyme, basil, or mint. Snip fresh herbs as you cook!

📌 Living Room Centerpiece – Combine Australian sandstone, succulents, and tiny animal figurines for a unique coffee table display.

Want a magical touch? Try a bedroom terrarium with LED fairy lights! 🌿✨

Caring for Your Tiny Ecosystem

✅ Water Sparingly – Overwatering is the fastest way to kill a terrarium. Stick to a misting schedule.

✅ Rotate for Even Growth – If your terrarium sits near a window, give it a turn every few weeks.

✅ Keep the Glass Clean – Wipe the inside occasionally to prevent algae buildup.

Conclusion: Bring the Outdoors In!

A collection of DIY terrarium supplies, including small succulent plants, gardening tools, soil, pebbles, and decorative driftwood, neatly arranged on a wooden surface.

Small terrariums do more than beautify your home—they create a healthier, more relaxing space. Whether you’re working from home or just want a nature-inspired touch, these DIY projects are an easy win.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a jar, some soil, and a tiny plant, and start building your own miniature green world today! 🌱