Instructions for Closed terrariums
Watering
Closed terrariums are completely sealed to the outside air with a lid. Some lids seal better than others. The following instructions assume a lid with a good seal that is only ever removed for watering.
Use a spray bottle to spray water onto the plants and top soil in the terrarium.
Closed terrariums typically only need to be watered once every three months if the lid is well sealed. Check the terrarium periodically and if the plants start to look dry increase the frequency of watering.
If the glass container tends to mist up too much, you can remove the lid for a while until the mist clears and use less water when watering.
Keep the bottom drainage layer (stones) dry. Only the top soil needs to be wet.
Instructions for Open terrariums
Watering
Open terrariums have no lid so they require more frequent watering than closed terrariums. Also, a terrarium that has a container with a large opening will require more frequent watering than one that has a container with small opening.
Use a spray bottle to spray water onto the plants and top soil in the terrarium.
Open terrariums typically need to be watered about twice a week. Check the terrarium periodically and if the plants start to look dry increase the frequency of watering.
Keep the bottom drainage layer (stones) dry. Only the top soil needs to be wet.
Note
The instructions above should be used as a guide only. Always adjust the frequency of watering according to how well the terrarium is doing.
Instructions for both Open and Closed terrariums
Placement
Terrariums prefer a position that has a good amount of light but not direct sunlight. If your terrarium doesn’t seem to be doing well try moving it to a location with more light.
Trimming
The plants in your terrarium are always growing – some kinds of plants grow slowly, others more quickly. Some trimming may be needed to maintain your mini garden.
Dead leaves
It’s normal that leaves die from time to time inside the terrarium. Either remove them or leave them for compost.