Terrarium Care Made Easy: Simple Solutions for a Thriving Setup
- Clarisse Santos
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
When Anna moved into her first apartment in the city, she missed the greenery of her childhood backyard. Between a full-time job and weekend plans, she didn’t have time for traditional gardening. That’s when she discovered terrariums—a way to bring a piece of nature indoors without the daily watering or guesswork.
If you’ve ever wanted a garden that practically takes care of itself, terrariums might be your perfect match.
Why Terrariums Make Sense for Busy Lives
Unlike houseplants that need constant attention, terrariums are self-sustaining ecosystems. Once set up, they require only minimal care—a little water here and there, occasional pruning, and a quick wipe of the glass. That’s it.
But what truly sets them apart is their simplicity. With just a clear container, a few layers of natural materials, and the right selection of plants, you can build a vibrant, living world in under an hour.
What’s Inside a Thriving Terrarium?
Think of a terrarium as a tiny jungle in a jar. Every layer plays a role:
Rocks at the bottom for drainage
Activated charcoal to filter toxins and odors
Potting soil for plant nutrition
Plants that love humid, low-light environments
This layering system supports a microclimate where condensation waters the plants, and the sealed environment recycles moisture.
Open vs. Closed Terrariums: Which Is Better?
Closed terrariums are perfect if you want a “set it and forget it” approach. They lock in humidity, which is ideal for ferns and mosses. Open terrariums, on the other hand, are better for air circulation and plants like succulents that prefer drier conditions.
If you're unsure, start with an open one—they’re more forgiving for beginners and allow for a wider plant selection.
No Gadgets, No Problem: Low-Tech Success
High-tech grow lights and automatic watering systems might look cool, but they’re unnecessary for a successful terrarium. In fact, keeping things simple often leads to better results. Using basic tools like a spray bottle, a teaspoon, and a pair of scissors is all you need for maintenance.
Even better? Many tools can be found around the house. An old jar becomes your container. A kitchen spoon becomes a planting tool. Simplicity wins.
Plant Picks for Beginners
If you’re new to this, choose hardy, humidity-loving plants. These thrive with minimal effort:
Ferns – Love moist soil and bounce back quickly.
Peperomia – Compact, colorful, and low-maintenance.
Mosses – Great for closed terrariums and don’t need much light.
Fittonia (nerve plant) – A showstopper with vibrant leaves.
Start with two or three complementary plants to avoid overcrowding. You’ll be surprised how quickly they fill the space.
Watering Wisdom Without Guesswork
Watering is where many first-time terrarium owners go wrong. A closed terrarium might only need watering once every few weeks—or even months. Open ones need a light mist once a week. The trick is to observe, not overdo.
If you see water pooling at the bottom, hold off. If the leaves look limp or the soil’s bone dry, it’s time to add a little.
Real People, Real Results
A recent study from Michigan State University found that indoor plants, including terrariums, can improve mood and productivity by up to 15%. One participant said her desk terrarium helped her focus better and gave her a “tiny moment of zen” during chaotic workdays.
This isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about creating a calming, living space that supports your well-being.
Getting Started Today
There’s no need to wait for the weekend or a trip to the store. You likely have everything you need at home to start building your first terrarium. Repurpose an old coffee jar. Scoop some gravel from your garden. Grab a plant from your local nursery—or better yet, trade cuttings with a friend.
Comments