DIY Medium Open and Closed Terrarium Kit

Product Information

In terms of the actual planting, I like to start with the tallest plant as it’ll dictate the layout of the land. Then use the smallest plants as decorative highlights. Isopods like woodlice and worms can thrive in a closed terrarium. They will become part of the ecosystem producing waste that will get broken down to feed the plants. Okay, the first step to a harmonious closed terrarium ecosystem is choosing your plants that’ll thrive in the moist environment and humid air. So we’ve got that covered. Now we’re onto the more nuanced things to consider. Terrarium lighting is another big one to consider. You’ll need to provide consistent, even light that satisfies the needs of your tropical understory plants but doesn’t burn them. They’re typically quite delicate, after all. Yes, you can create a more elaborate setup with lights, this will also give you more options for plants.

Our closed terrarium kits contain all the tools, soil, gravel, stones and charcoal you need. Suitable plants are also available as an option. Lid– If your glassware doesn’t come with a lid, then find yourself one! ( This shop on Etsy provides custom-sized acrylic lids).You’ll need a good foundation, lots of structure and support, and plenty of drainage – then, finally, a boatload of gorgeous plants. The closed terrarium water cycle mimics that found in nature. Once water is added to the terrarium and the lid closed, it becomes continually recycled. Water droplets form inside the glass container due to condensation and the plants giving off water through their pores (stomates) during photosynthesis. Water then runs down the jar into the soil, and the process repeats. The Drainage Layer – A foundational structure and reservoir for excess water to drain into. Sometimes, it includes an activated charcoal layer and mesh barrier. We’ve used leca in this drainage layer, it’s our go-to material.

Tools – Not all are essential terrarium tools, but long tweezers help immensely in positioning plants. Then, long scissors are needed to trim them. You can make up your tropical substrate mix using: a soil base like potting soil, bark that has not been dyed, sphagnum moss, and horticultural sand/grit.When it comes to watering, you can use the old-fashioned method of adding water when the soil feels dry, but honestly, that’s a bit of a fuss in the confined space of a terrarium. Best closed terrarium plants include Polka dot plants, Peperomia, Miniature English ivy, ferns, and mosses. Or cling film (Saran wrap) works in a pinch! You can snip the loose edges and get a clean finish if you’re careful. However, it does tend to get quite dusty.