How to Make a Basic Terrarium

Mother’s Day series day 2! Don’t forget about the giveaway (see details below).
 
Next up are terrariums! I typically make and teach air plant terrariums, but wanted to get back into more traditional terrarium making for this Mother’s Day week. I had so much fun making these yesterday, playing with plants, glass, shells, gems and pebbles! You can find many versions of terrarium tutorials online. This recipe is for a basic terrarium, which you can adjust based on plants you use, glassware, and "toppings." Some plant crafters add more bottom layers (pebbles, sand, etc.). I’ve found charcoal and soil to work well, but you can add more ingredients if you want to play with the look. You can find the charcoal in pet stores in the aquarium department. Charcoal acts as a water filter, which you need in an enclosed planter to avoid algae growth.

Basic Terrarium
 
What you need:

• Glassware (I used a low square votive holder, hurricane vase and funky terrarium vessel)
• Houseplants (there are many lists of appropriate plants to use. I used African violet, ponytail palms and multiple types of ferns I found at a local nursery).
• Moist potting soil
• Charcoal pellets
• Toppings! (shells, pebbles, gemstones, etc.)

 

1. Add a thin layer of charcoal pellets to the bottom of the vase.
2. Fill glass about a third of the way with potting soil (here you can layer pebbles or sand first if you wish).
3. Dig holes for your chosen plants and plant, making sure the crown of your plant is flush with the top of the soil.
4. Add toppings!

 
Care for your terrarium depends on the plants you use. I choose indoor plants that need filtered light. I check the soil regularly for dryness and water when the soil is no longer moist. For these terrariums I chose plants that I like, but some will not last forever in their terrarium homes. I think of terrariums as long term arrangements; eventually expect your plant buddies to grow out of their containers. You can repot them and replace with new, small plant babies.

​Instagram Giveaway! I’m giving away one of my wildflower terrarium necklaces launching soon in the Leelee’s Garden botanical craft shop. If you know me, you’ve probably seen me wearing one of these. I’ll post Mother’s Day DIY ideas everyday here and on Instagram @leeleesgarden. If you like a post this week and tag 2 friends you’ll get 1 entry. If you MAKE one of these projects this week, share and tag @leeleesgarden, you’ll get 5 entries. Not on Instagram? You can also email me a photo of what you’ve made at leelee@leeleesgarden.com and get 5 entries. Winner Announced May 15!