Simple DIY Tabletop Terrarium

I love terrariums. They're works of eco-art! People ask me all the time how to make these so I figured I'd make a video/blog post and explain it to you. It's much easier than people typically expect and it's really low-maintenance. You can definitely order some in store, online or from custom terrarium makers like TeenyTinyTerra, but I find there is a lot of joy in making your own!

TO START YOU'LL NEED:

GLASS CONTAINER
-I suggest something with a larger brim opening, so that the planing process is easier
- Try searching through thrift stores and get creative with your container, try coffee pots, vases, mason jars, etc.
- Make sure to watch your container in hot water without soap first

SMALL STONES
- Think pebbles, gravel, aquarium gravel, etc.
- Make sure to wash in hot water and let dry before using
- Avoid shells and limestone or other things that may change the PH balance

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL
- This removes odors and toxins from the soil. It collects the toxins fro the soil and water to prevent damage to the plants.

- If you can't find activated charcoal you can go without, however, you should water your terrarium in distilled water to avoid adding water treatment chemicals to your terrarium.
- It also helps with drainage and prevents things like root rot.
- Fun fact: Activated charcoal is also one of the main types of filters for aquariums, if you have a hard time finding it, check your local pet/aquarium store.

SOIL
- Make sure the soil you purchase is for that of your specific plant types.

PLANTS
- Make sure all your plants are of the same type (ie. they share watering habits, light requirements, fertilizing seasons, etc)
- Try only to get a small amount, your terrarium will grow (quicker than you think) and you don't want it to get over crowded.

ACCESSORIES
- Cute figurines to liven up your tiny jungle.
- Moss, crystals, stones, driftwood, etc.
- Try to avoid metals if you can help it. They can oxidize and that can effect the tiny eco system. Opt for wood, ceramic or plastic instead.

OPTIONAL
- Sheet moss - extra drainage
- Sand - extra drainage
- Fiberglass screen - extra drainage
- Funnel - to evenly pour the soil with less mess
- Chopsticks/Tongs/Fork - to move, place and plant.


DIRECTIONS:


STEP ONE:
Begin by putting about 1-2 inches or so of small stones at the base of the terrarium. Basically you want to cover the entire bottom of the container but you also want it to be high enough so it can hold stagnant water if need be. (aka, proper drainage in case you over-water).

STEP TWO:
Cover the rocks with a layer of activated charcoal. Optional: If you are using sand, fiberglass screen or sheet moss this would be the next step after the charcoal. It prevents soil from falling into the pebbles as well as it adds an extra layer of drainage.

STEP THREE:
Add your soil. Make small divots in the soil for each of your plants, deep enough to fit the roots of the plant. Your soil layer is doing to be your thickest layer and should be about 3x the height of the stones.

STEP FOUR:
Remove your plants from their containers and remove the excess soil from the roots. Begin to place your plants in the terrarium (I find it's easier if you start with the largest plant and end with the smallest). Lightly pack the roots with soil. Again, be sure not to over-plant! Your terrarium will grow, so use this extra space to add your accessories.

STEP FIVE:
Add fun figurines and accessories! Make sure they are also washed in hot water and are made of plant safe materials. Which is basically anything that cannot change the PH balance, like metal. Opt for wood, bone, stone, ceramic, or plastic.

MAINTENANCE
- Water about 1-2 times a week. Try to water the plants directly at their roots to avoid damaging the mosses. This all changes depending on your plant types. So do your research!!
- Prune dead foliage and overgrown spaces when needed to prevent rotting.
- Keep in natural indirect light (again, changes depending on your plants).
- Mist your terrarium when needed

Any questions feel free to ask. Have you made a terrarium before? Comment below!