Learn how to create and maintain an open terrarium with ideal plants for a beautiful indoor garden.
An open terrarium is a mini garden inside a container that remains open to the air, unlike a closed terrarium, which is sealed. Open terrariums are typically used for plants that prefer less humidity and more air circulation, such as succulents, cacti, and some air plants. These types of terrariums are ideal for plants that thrive in dry conditions and need ample ventilation to prevent issues like mold growth and rot.
The open structure allows for easy access to the plants for maintenance like watering and pruning, making it a practical choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. It also allows for the natural exchange of air, which helps keep the plants healthy. Open terrariums can be created in various containers, such as glass bowls, jars, or even creatively repurposed items, and often include a layer of rocks or gravel, soil, and decorative elements like moss or stones.
Selecting the right plants for an open terrarium is crucial to ensure that your mini ecosystem thrives with minimal maintenance. Here’s a guide on how to choose the best plants for your open terrarium, focusing on compatibility in terms of light, water, and overall care requirements.
By carefully selecting plants that have compatible light, water, and space needs, you can create a beautiful and thriving open terrarium. Remember, the key is to ensure all plants can coexist harmoniously under similar environmental conditions.
Creating an open terrarium is a fun and creative way to bring a bit of nature indoors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make one:
Prepare the Container: Clean your glass container thoroughly to remove any dust or residues that could affect plant health.
Create a Drainage Layer: Fill the bottom of the container with a layer of pebbles or gravel about one to two inches thick. This layer helps prevent water from pooling at the roots.
Add Activated Charcoal: If using, spread a thin layer of activated charcoal over the gravel. This helps to control any odors and reduce bacterial and fungal growth in the soil.
Add Soil: Pour in enough potting soil over the charcoal or gravel to allow your plants to root properly. The amount of soil will depend on the size of your plants’ roots.
Plant: Remove the plants from their pots and shake off excess soil gently. Arrange them in the terrarium, starting with the largest plant first. Use a spoon or tongs to place them into the soil, ensuring there’s enough space between them to allow for growth.
Add Decorations: Once your plants are in place, add any decorative elements like moss, larger stones, or figurines to enhance the visual appeal of your terrarium.
Final Touches: Adjust the plants and decorations until you are satisfied with the appearance. Gently brush off any soil that may have gotten onto the plants or the sides of the container.
Watering: Lightly water your terrarium, being cautious not to overwater, as the open structure does not hold moisture as a closed terrarium would. The soil should be moist, not soggy.
Caring for an open terrarium is relatively straightforward, as it requires less maintenance than a closed terrarium. Here are some essential tips to ensure your open terrarium stays healthy and vibrant:
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
