Frequently Asked Questions about Terrariums

Terrariums are self-sufficient ecosystems contained in a bottle or a jar. They are miniature garden or mini forest enclosed in its own little world. In this mini forest, plants water themselves through transpiration and condensation.

Enclosed Terrariums:

As mentioned in the name itself, enclosed terrarium or sealed terrarium is a sealable glass container for plants which can be opened once in few days for watering or pruning.

How a closed terrarium works

Bright indirect light is very important for terrariums to work. Warmth from the light causes the moisture to escape from plants and soil. This moisture is trapped in the glass container. Then this moisture will ‘rain’ back to soil and the process repeats.

Open Terrariums:

Open terrariums are not actually terrariums. They are mini gardens in open containers. Succulents and cacti are best suitable for open terrariums as they do not like humid environment.

How an open terrarium works:

An open terrarium does not have the rain cycle as in closed terrariums. There will lot of air circulation hence the less humidity. Open terrariums requires to be watered every couple of weeks and they need lot of direct light to be healthy. 

Plants thrive when they get enough light. So, a bright indirect light works best for closed terrarium. Place it in windowsill away from direct sunlight. 

Best part of closed terrarium is that it doesn’t require watering. If the condensation is not happening inside the terrarium then you need to spray very little water (very rarely). Open terrariums may be watered by spraying very lightly not more than once a week.

Definitely. Some plants grow faster and some slow. They can be pruned if they overgrow.

 Water on the terrarium glass or condensation is a sign of healthy terrarium. If the condensation is too much you can open the terrarium lid for couple of hours. 

If proper care is given to the terrarium, it can last for years together. If the plants overgrow or die it can always be replaced by a new suitable plant.

If plant a plant or all plants in the terrarium die, they can be replanted. You can get in touch with us and we can suggest you with the plant(s) that you could use in the terrarium. We will also guide you over a video call or through step by step videos to replant. If you are unable to find the plants in a nursery nearby we can also deliver it to you at a reasonable price.