Creating a terrarium can be a fun project. It is like making a tiny garden in a glass. You can choose many plants for your terrarium. But some plants work better than others. In this article, we will explore the best plants for a terrarium. We will look at what makes each plant special.
What is a Terrarium?
A terrarium is a small, closed environment. It is usually made of glass. Inside, you can grow plants. Terrariums can be open or closed. An open terrarium has no lid. A closed terrarium has a lid. The lid helps keep moisture inside. This is good for certain plants.
Terrariums can be placed anywhere. You can put them on a table or a shelf. They make a nice decoration. They also help teach about plants and ecosystems.
Why Choose the Right Plants?
Choosing the right plants is important. Not all plants grow well in terrariums. Some need more space than others. Some plants like a lot of water, while others do not. The best plants will thrive in a small space. They should also be easy to care for. Let’s look at some of the best plants for terrariums.
1. Ferns
Ferns are a popular choice. They have soft, feathery leaves. Ferns love humidity. They do well in closed terrariums. Some great ferns for terrariums are:
- Boston Fern
- Maidenhair Fern
- Button Fern
These ferns are small. They stay green and healthy in a glass jar. They also add a lush look to your terrarium.
2. Moss
Moss is a great plant for terrariums. It is soft and green. Moss likes damp places. It can grow in low light. You can use different types of moss. Some common types are:
- Sheet Moss
- Reindeer Moss
- Irish Moss
Moss can cover the ground in your terrarium. It looks beautiful. It also helps keep moisture in the soil.
3. Succulents
Succulents are very popular. They have thick leaves. Succulents store water. They do not need much care. However, they need good light. Some good succulents for terrariums are:
- Echeveria
- Haworthia
- Jade Plant
These plants are colorful. They come in many shapes and sizes. They are perfect for open terrariums.
4. Air Plants
Air plants are unique. They do not need soil to grow. They get nutrients from the air. You can place them anywhere. They look great in glass containers. Just mist them with water once a week. Some popular air plants are:
- Tillandsia
- Spanish Moss
- Ball Moss
Air plants are easy to care for. They add a fun touch to your terrarium.
5. Snake Plant
The Snake Plant is a strong plant. It can survive in many conditions. It does not need much light. Snake Plants are great for beginners. They can grow tall and have long leaves. They can also help clean the air.
6. Pothos
Pothos is another good choice. It has heart-shaped leaves. Pothos grows quickly. It can grow in low light. You can let it trail down from the top of your terrarium. This creates a beautiful effect.
7. Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is fun and easy to grow. It has long, arching leaves. It produces small “baby” plants. You can see these hanging down. Spider Plants like indirect light. They also help purify the air. They are perfect for terrariums.
Credit: ome.design
8. Fittonia
Fittonia, also known as the nerve plant, is colorful. It has striking leaves with veins. It loves humidity and low light. Fittonia adds a pop of color to your terrarium. It works best in closed terrariums.
Credit: www.thespruce.com
9. Peperomia
Peperomia is a small plant. It comes in many types. Some have thick leaves, while others have smooth ones. Peperomia is easy to care for. It enjoys low to medium light. It can add variety to your terrarium.
10. Chinese Money Plant
The Chinese Money Plant is unique. It has round leaves that look like coins. It is easy to grow in terrariums. It enjoys bright, indirect light. People believe it brings good luck.
Tips for Planting a Terrarium
Now that you know the best plants, let’s discuss some tips for planting.
1. Choose The Right Container
Your container should be clear. Glass is a popular choice. It lets you see your plants. It also helps with light. You can choose a tall or short container. Make sure it has enough space for your plants.
2. Use Good Soil
Use a good potting mix. Make sure it drains well. If you use too much water, your plants can rot. You can add small rocks at the bottom of the container for drainage.
3. Add Plants Carefully
When adding plants, be gentle. Dig small holes for the roots. Place each plant in its hole. Press the soil around the plant. This keeps it stable.
4. Water Sparingly
Water your terrarium lightly. Too much water can harm the plants. Check the soil with your finger. If it feels dry, add a little water.
5. Provide Light
Place your terrarium in a bright spot. But avoid direct sunlight. Too much sun can burn the plants. Indirect light is best for most plants.
6. Keep An Eye On Humidity
Closed terrariums keep humidity inside. Open terrariums need a little more care. You may need to mist them sometimes. This helps keep the plants healthy.
Conclusion
Terrariums are a fun and creative project. They allow you to enjoy plants indoors. Choosing the right plants is key. Ferns, succulents, and moss are great choices. Each plant has its own charm.
Remember to care for your terrarium. With proper light and water, it will thrive. Enjoy watching your tiny garden grow. Happy planting!
