Indoor Gardening Secrets of a Successful Glass Terrarium

By Jill Hogan

A big secret to successful indoor gardening in a glass terrarium starts before the first plant is even purchased. Yes, plant selection is important but choosing an appropriate container and following the correct four step layering process helps the garden flourish.

First determine if you want a mini-garden full of humidity loving plants or those that prefer dryer conditions. If you go down the humidity path, you'll want to select a container with a lid that will capture the moisture and create the humidity you need. Beautiful, decorative glass terrariums and stands add to any home decor while still providing openings for ventilation as needed. Otherwise, an open top vessel like an aquarium, vase, or bottle will also work.

Plants in any glass terrarium do better when a layered planting process is used - starting with a layer of coarse sand or pebbles at the bottom for drainage.

Using activated charcoal as the next layer is especially important in a container with a top or lid. Just like when it's used in an aquarium filter for the fish, the charcoal acts as a filter to keep the air fresh for the plants inside the container.

Next, add a thin covering of sphagnum moss to prevent the soil from sifting and settling down into the drainage layers of pebbles and charcoal. The moss still allows the water to drain but keeps the soil in place.

Finally, add a good quality potting soil. Some people prefer to use a potting soil formulated specifically for terrariums while others are just as successful with a regular potting mix. However, if you want to use cactus to create a desert theme terrarium, you may want to investigate a pre-mixed soil that contains more sand. Regardless, never add beach sand to any terrarium. Too much salt!

After getting your plants in place, think about adding finishing touches like a small statue, bridge, or accent rocks to accessorize the terrarium and build on the theme of the miniature garden. Be creative in choosing these elements just as you would in accessorizing your home.

Indoor gardening with a glass terrarium can be just as rewarding as gardening outside - as long as you correctly layer the foundation. Look for containers that will show off these miniature gardens as home decor essentials.