How to Build Your Own Terrarium

A terrarium is a great addition to any dorm room. They add decoration and greenery.  You can plant flowers, herbs, small veggies, or even miniature fruits! Terrariums are not only easy to care for, but easy to build! So here’s how:

 

Any container will do; even closed containers. An open terrarium will need spritzed with water a couple times a week, while a closed terrarium requires an extra ingredient (but no watering). 

 

Add a layer, about an inch thick, of rocks. Various sizes work depending on the container. This is to allow air to get the roots, and a place for water to go because there is no hole in the bottom of a terrarium like a normal planter. 

 

Note: this step is really only for closed containers to prevent molding and to clean water as it recycles in this system.  Add a thin covering over the rocks.

 

Next step is to add a decent amount of moss on top of the rocks and charcoal.

 

A hefty amount of soil is needed for the roots, and even more if you are planting something that grows downward, like a radish. This should take a decent amount of space in the container.

 

 

Seeds should be placed about a ½ inch down, and roots of plants should be covered. If you are planting a succulent that stems from another plant, you can simply place the entire appendage on the soil and it will root itself and grow.  

 

Moss can be added again for aesthetic pleasure, but this is optional.

 

Tiny figurines and rocks can be added to your terrarium, too. Just don’t hurt the plants! Get creative with this part.

 

Place your terrariums in a sunny spot (unless otherwise directed) and enjoy your terrarium!