How to Make a Terrarium at Home: A Beginner-Friendly DIY Guide
Looking for a simple, low-maintenance way to build your own indoor garden? Terrariums are not only visually stunning but also calming and easy to care for. In this guide, Terrariumvibe will walk you through how to make a terrarium at home with easy steps, using simple materials perfect for beginners.
What Is a Terrarium?
A terrarium is a miniature indoor garden enclosed in a transparent container—such as a glass jar, fishbowl, or bottle. It’s a self-contained or semi-self-sustaining ecosystem where plants grow with minimal care, thanks to a balance of moisture, light, and airflow.
What Is a Terrarium?
Types of Terrariums
Terrariums fall into two main categories depending on their structure and internal environment:
Closed Terrariums
These come with a lid or tight cover, creating a humid, self-sustaining environment. Moisture circulates inside through evaporation and condensation. Ideal for humidity-loving plants like ferns, moss, pothos, or lucky bamboo. They need little watering and do best in indirect light.
There are 2 types of terrarium
Open Terrariums
These have no lid, allowing air to flow freely. They’re perfect for dry-tolerant plants like succulents, cacti, and aloe vera. With better airflow, they’re less prone to mold and easier to maintain for beginners.
Materials Needed to Make a Terrarium
Before learning how to make a terrarium at home, gather the following basic items:
Transparent container:
- A glass jar, bowl, cup, or small tank—either with or without a lid.
Base layers (substrate):
- Pebbles or gravel (for drainage)
- Activated charcoal (odor and mold control)
- Potting soil (choose the right type for your plant)
- Optional: mesh or dried moss to separate soil from pebbles
Plants:
- For closed terrariums: ferns, moss, pothos, lucky bamboo
- For open terrariums: succulents, cacti, air plants
- Tools & decorative items: Tweezers, spoon, spray bottle, mini figurines, colorful stones, seashells
Materials Needed to Make a Terrarium
Choosing Plants for Your Terrarium
When learning how to make a terrarium at home, it’s important to pick the right plants. Choose varieties that thrive in confined spaces and require little care:
- Ferns: Love moisture and shade, perfect for closed terrariums
- Moss: Creates a lush look, thrives in humidity and low light
- Pothos: Hardy and easy to grow in low-light, humid conditions
- Succulents: Prefer dry conditions and indirect sunlight
- Cacti: Thrive in bright, dry conditions with minimal watering
- Aloe Vera: A drought-tolerant, low-maintenance succulent
Choosing Plants for Your Terrarium
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Terrarium at Home
- Step 1: Choose a Glass Container
Pick a wide-mouth jar for easy access and decorating with items like mini statues or seashells.
- Step 2: Select Suitable Plants
Match the plant to the terrarium type. Avoid succulents or cacti in closed terrariums due to humidity.
- Step 3: Create a Drainage Layer
Add small rocks at the bottom for drainage, followed by activated charcoal to keep the setup fresh.
- Step 4: Add Moss and Potting Mix
Place dried moss to separate layers, then add your chosen potting mix.
- Step 5: Prepare the Plants
Loosen roots gently. Place taller plants in the center or back to create depth.
- Step 6: Plant and Arrange
Dig small holes and insert plants. Pat the soil down gently to hold them in place.
- Step 7: Decorate Your Terrarium
Add personal touches like tiny figurines, shells, or colorful stones for a unique mini garden.
How to Make a Terrarium at Home
Now that you know how to make a terrarium at home, you’re ready to create your own peaceful, green corner. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a stylish and sustainable miniature ecosystem—perfect for your desk, shelf, or coffee table.