Creating Your Own Miniature World: How to Make a Terrarium in a Jar

Terrariums are a great way to add a touch of nature to your home decor. These miniature gardens enclosed in glass jars are a beautiful and low-maintenance way to bring a little bit of the outdoors inside. They are perfect for people who want to garden but don’t have much outdoor space or time to commit to taking care of plants.

Creating a terrarium in a jar is a fun and easy project that can be done at home with just a few supplies. It’s a great activity to do with kids or as a relaxing pastime on your own. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of creating your very own terrarium in a jar. So, grab a jar and let’s get started!

Choosing the right jar

When it comes to creating a terrarium in a jar, the first thing that you need to do is choose the right jar. It is important to choose a jar that is transparent so that you can see the plants inside. The size of the jar also depends on the size of the plants you want to keep inside. It is always better to choose a bigger jar as it allows the plants enough room to grow.

Picking the right plants

Once you have chosen the jar, the next step is to pick the plants that you want to keep in your terrarium. It is important to choose plants that require similar light, water, and humidity conditions. You can choose a combination of small ferns, succulents, and cacti as they all require low maintenance and can grow in a closed environment.

Preparing the jar

Before planting the terrarium, it is important to prepare the jar. You can start by adding a layer of small pebbles at the bottom of the jar followed by a layer of activated charcoal. This will help prevent any fungal growth and keeps the soil fresh. Once you have added the pebbles and charcoal, add a layer of soil on top.

Planting the terrarium

After you have prepared the jar, it is time to plant the terrarium. Start by planting the largest plants first, followed by the smaller ones. Make sure to leave enough space between the plants so that they have enough room to grow. Once you have planted the terrarium, water it thoroughly and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap to create a humid environment.

Caring for the terrarium

Once you have planted the terrarium, it is important to care for it properly. Keep the terrarium in indirect light and make sure to water it only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause the plants to rot and fungal growth. Additionally, make sure to remove any dead leaves or plants to prevent rot and fungal growth.

Adding decorative elements

Once your terrarium is established, you may want to add some decorative elements to make it look even more attractive. You can add small figurines, colored stones, or decorative items to the terrarium.

Dealing with condensation

When you create a terrarium, condensation can develop on the inside of the jar, especially if you have sealed it to create a humid environment. If this happens, you can simply open the lid or plastic wrap for a few hours to let the excess moisture escape.

Reviving a dying terrarium

If you notice that your terrarium is not doing well, you can try reviving it. Start by removing any dead leaves or plants, and make sure to water it properly. If the issue persists, you may want to replace the soil or the plant itself.

Transplanting the terrarium

If your terrarium has outgrown the jar, or if you want to change the design, you can transplant it into a new jar or pot. Start by removing the plants from the old jar and replanting them in the new jar. Make sure to water them properly and care for them as you would a new terrarium.

Enjoying your terrarium

Creating a terrarium in a jar is a fun and rewarding activity. It can be used to brighten up any space, and has many benefits for your mental health and well-being. So why not try creating your own terrarium today?

Section 2: Materials Needed For Making a Terrarium in a Jar

Making a terrarium in a jar is not only a great way to add some lush greenery to your indoor space, but it’s also an excellent DIY project that requires minimal effort. The first step in creating a terrarium is to assemble all the necessary materials. Here are the materials you will need to create a beautiful terrarium in a jar:

1. Glass jar or container

The first thing you will need for making a terrarium is a glass jar or container. You can use any type of glass jar or container, but it’s best to use a transparent one so you can observe the plants inside the terrarium.

2. Gravel or Pebbles

Next, you will need a layer of gravel or pebbles. This helps to create a drainage system for excess water. You can use any size of pebbles, but it’s best to use small-sized pebbles so that they do not occupy too much space in the jar.

3. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is an essential ingredient for making a terrarium in a jar. It helps to keep the air fresh by absorbing excess moisture and odor. You can buy activated charcoal from a pet store or an aquarium shop.

4. Potting Soil

Once you have added the gravel and charcoal layer, you will need to add a layer of potting soil. Choose a high-quality potting mix that is suitable for your plants. Avoid using garden soil as it does not allow for proper drainage.

5. Moss or Sheet Moss

Moss or sheet moss is used to cover the soil and create a natural look. It also helps to retain moisture and keep the soil in place.

6. Small Plants

The best plants for a terrarium are small, low-maintenance plants that thrive in a humid environment. Some popular choices include ferns, ivy, succulents, and air plants.

7. Terrarium Tools

To create a terrarium, you will need some basic tools, including a pair of scissors or pruning shears, a spoon or trowel for planting, and a spray bottle for watering.

8. Decorative Elements

Adding decorative elements to your terrarium can make it look more attractive. You can add small figurines, rocks, or even seashells to give your terrarium a unique touch.

9. Gloves

Wearing gloves will protect your hands from thorns, dirt, and other hazards when planting your terrarium.

10. Good Lighting

Finally, it’s important to place your terrarium in a spot with good natural light, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the plants and soil. A shaded area with indirect light is ideal for most terrariums.

In conclusion, creating a terrarium in a jar is a fun, easy project that anyone can do without a lot of effort. With the right materials and some basic tools, you can make your indoor space more beautiful and green. All in all, crafting a terrarium in a jar is a fulfilling experience that is certainly worth all the effort involved.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Terrarium

Creating a terrarium is more than just placing a few plants in a jar. Choosing the right plants is critical to the health and success of your little ecosystem. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the plants for your terrarium.

Consider the Size of Your Jar

The size of your jar will determine the size of the plants you choose. If your jar is small, choose plants that won’t overgrow the space. Small succulents like Echeveria “Lola” or Haworthia “Cooperi” work well in smaller jars. If you have a larger jar, you can choose plants that can grow taller like the Calathea “Rattlesnake” or the Dracaena “Marginata.”

Think about the Lighting

The type of plants you select should also depend on the amount of natural light the terrarium will receive. If the jar is going to be placed on a windowsill, choose plants that can handle direct sunlight like the Aloe Vera or the Jade Plant. If the jar will be in a room with low light, look for plants that thrive in shade like the Asparagus Fern or the Chinese Money Plant.

Consider the Water Needs

Different plants have varying water requirements, so it’s important to choose plants that have similar watering needs. If your jar has a lid, it will create a humid environment and you can choose plants that require more moisture like the Fittonia “Pink Vein” or the Ficus Pumila. If your jar is open, choose plants that don’t need as much water like the Snake Plant or the Zebra Cactus.

Think about the Colors

Selecting plants with different colors can add a visually stunning effect to your terrarium. Mix and match plants with different shades of green, or add pops of color with red or pink plants like the Begonia “Lucerna” or the Calathea “Triostar.”

Avoid Invasive Plants

Weed-like plants, such as creeping fig, can quickly overrun a small ecosystem like a terrarium. They may look great at first, but before long they could smother or even kill other plants. Choose plants that are well-behaved and won’t take over your terrarium.

Remember that different plants have different growing requirements, so make sure to research each plant before you bring it home. Once you’ve selected your plants, you’re ready to get started with the fun part of creating your terrarium!

Keep your mini garden alive and thriving!

Thanks for reading and we hope you’re feeling inspired to create your own terrarium in a jar. Remember to choose the right plants and soil, add some decorative elements, and give your mini garden some love and attention. It’s amazing how something so small can bring so much life and joy into your home. Don’t forget to share photos of your creation and come back for more gardening tips and tricks!