DIY Living Room Terrarium

Terrariums are a low-maintenance way to bring plants into your home in a beautiful, creative mannner. They were trendy in the 1960s and ’70s and are finding their way back into homes again.
Putting together a terrarium is a great way to customize something to your wants and likes. You can add the plants and features you want instead of purchasing a pre-constructed one.
Two types of terrariums
There are two different types of terrariums: open and enclosed displays.
  • Open terrariums have a glass display with an opening that allows moisture to escape, so it has less humidity. This type is typically used for succulents or cacti, which require less water.
  • Enclosed terrariums are what most people think of — glass structures that are sealed to create a high-humidity environment. The moisture continuously recycles itself, providing water for the plants, and can go months before you need to add water.
Terrarium supplies
  • Base: These materials form the bottom foundation that you’ll use for planting and include growing media, bark chips, moss, sand, activated charcoal, and some rocks.
  • Plants: Don’t go overboard. Remember, you’re working with limited space.
  • Accent pieces: Sticks, shells, figurines — anything to add your personal touch, just make sure they are colorfast.
  • Planting tools: Funnel, spoon or small scoop, long-handled tweezers, soft-bristled brush. These items will help make placing plants and accent pieces in the terrarium easier.
  • Spray bottle: One with a fine mist is best for watering plants.
Building the base layer of your terrarium
After pulling together supplies, it’s time to start building. Start at the bottom, and follow this order to make your terrarium.
  • A thin layer of material (small gravel, sand, or bark chips) creates a collection area for water.
  • A layer of activated charcoal filters and purifies the water.
  • A permeable barrier (moss, screen, or paper in matching colors) over the charcoal layer allows moisture through but prevents the growing media from settling.
  • A thicker layer of your chosen growing substrate to hold moisture and anchor your plants.
Arranging plants and accents
With the base layer in place, it’s time to secure your plants. Start by setting them in the terrarium to determine the best position. Then plant using the spoon and tweezers if necessary, being careful not to disrupt the growing medium.
Once you’re done planting, you can add moss, small gravel, or fine bark chips to cover the visible potting soil. Finish off by placing your accents!
Tips for building a living room terrarium
  • Choose clear glass instead of a colored glass container. The colored glass can block some light from reaching the plants.
  • Look for a vessel with a wide opening since it’s easier to add plants and other items when you’re putting it together.
  • Pick plants or varieties that stay shorter or are slow-growing, so they don’t quickly outgrow the space.
  • A thicker layer of your chosen growing substrate to hold moisture and anchor your plants.