Whether you need a pop of green on your desk at work, or a centerpiece to woo your guests, an open terrarium may be just what you need. This project is fun, meditative, and for all skill levels!
terrariums
Let’s first get our stories straight. What is the difference between a regular terrarium and an open terrarium?
A true terrarium is sealed, usually with a cork or metal lid. It is self sustaining and doesn’t need to be watered once it’s sealed. In short, vapors are released from the plants & soil, they attach to the walls and drip down to re-water the plants.
open terrariums
An open terrarium is created the same way, in a glass container, but not sealed. This allows you to create a landscape of virtually any type of plant.
Cacti and succulents can but used to create a dessert-scape, while ferns, begonias, and peperomia can be used to make a more tropical style open terrarium.
supplies
Supplies will vary because you can use different types of material to layer. I suggest layering at least 2 different types of materials prior to soil. This list contains affiliate links. You can see my disclosure policy for details. Thank you for supporting Clever Bloom!
- Layering material options: horticulture charcoal, lava rock, sand, rock variety, perlite, bark chips.
- Plants: I like to use peperomia, begonia, cacti, succulents, etc. You can also take small cuttings from plants you have around the house.
- Potting mix: Try to use the right kind for the plants you are using. For example, a tropical mix for tropical plants, and a coarse mix for succulents & cacti.
- Decorative elements: Larger rock, bark, ceramic snakes or mushrooms.
- Glass container: Your choice! I love this one and this one.
watch how to make an open terrarium
STEPS
- Layer drainage material about one inch thick per item. For this project I used one layer of horticulture charcoal, and one layer of small decorative rock.
- Add a layer of potting mix.
- Arrange plants until you achieve desired look.
- Add more potting mix on top until all of the roots are covered.
- Use small rock or bark as a top dressing (this is for design not functionality).
- Add in decorative rock, bark, and more until your open terrarium is complete.
CARE
- Water slowly and only enough to wet the potting mix without water pooling at the bottom of the glass.
- Place in a spot with medium light.
- As the plant grow bigger, you can prune and propagate to keep that plants smaller.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you’re looking for more information on this project, and more fun planty projects, grab your copy of HOW TO PLANT A ROOM AND GROW A HAPPY HOME.
