Terrariums were not invented as home decor, but were initially a key industrial piece of technology, for the safe transport of valuable crop plants around the world on ships. The number one error in terrarium planting is when it involves cacti and succulents. A terrarium is the opposite of what these types of plant need, so we tend to avoid them in closed terrariums.
A terrarium creates a low-light, high-humidity and stable environment – its own complete eco system. Lowlight loving soil-level species from forests are therefore used in terrariums. A common problem is that young plants of large species are often used, eventually becoming too big for their terrarium home, you can trim plants if they are growing too large but use clean sterile tools to do so.
In Saffron Walden and other hardwater areas, rainwater/mineral water should be used to water the terrarium. This prevents a buildup of calcium deposits. At the supermarket, choose mineral water with the lowest mineral content, which is listed on the back of each bottle, we recommend using Volvic. Your terrarium needs water if; the substrate is light colour, the plants are wilting, the moss looks dry, the soil surface is loose and moves easily or if the substrate is dry to the touch.
We recommend a permanent, bright but indirect position such as a north-facing windowsill (in the northern hemisphere). Alternatively, in a brighter room, put the terrarium one to two meters away from the window. Enjoy your new creation and please remember to share your feedback on Google and social media.
