Best Succulents To Put In Terrarium
Trying to make your potted plants look beautiful can be a hard task.
Adding them to an open terrarium is one choice, but do you know what it is?
Many beautiful terrarium pots can be found in your favorite store.
and they are perfect for displaying plants with lush green leaves.
KEY TAKEAWAY
What are the best plants to grow in terrariums?
The plants that thrive in such environment are plants like succulents,
or plants that don’t need frequent watering.
What kind of plants can you put in them?
A great option is the indoor plants such as snake plant, which has long,
slender green leaves that will look stunning in an open terrarium,
This is the same questions that Mary had asked before.
I got an open terrarium pot for a wedding gift, and it was from one of my close friends.
She knew I had several snake plants in my house…
…and immediately thought I’m an expert gardener.
She asked me if I liked the terrarium pots.
It was actually cute, if only I know how to use it.
I didn’t have the heart to tell her, so I lied.
The thing is, she gave me some more the next time there’s a special occasion.
I really need to start knowing how to use an open terrarium pot soon.
We actually can relate to Mary. Can you?
Let’s dive deeper into an open terrarium and what plants can you grow using it.
What Is Terrarium?
Terrariums are glass containers used to house plants.
Because they are much smaller than a regular garden but…
…provide optimal growing conditions for many plants with green color.
Many people refer to them as mini-gardens or mini-greenhouses.
They usually come in a variety of sizes and are ideal for decorating your home.
Terrariums are popular among plant enthusiasts because they…
…make plant care easier and take up little space.
Another factor that makes terrariums appealing is that they can be…
…decorated however you want.
You can decorate them with small figurines, multi-colored rocks, fun little gadgets, and so on.
You can also make a terrarium from various glass containers, such as glass bottles and fish bowls.
If you decide to build your own mini-greenhouse, you will have a lot of creative freedom.
Snake Plant in Terrariums
Terrariums can be open or closed at any time.
Both types create very different environments, which is why they must be used cautiously.
Because they are completely enclosed, there is no way for air…
…or moisture to escape, closed terrarium has a very humid environment.
Open terrariums, on the other hand, have an opening, usually at the top of the jar/container.
Because the area is exposed to air currents and the outside world,..
…open mini-gardens create a dry environment.
The humidity levels in open terrariums will be comparable to those in your home.
Then…
What are the closed terrariums for succulents? Is it any different?
An enclosed glass container with plants and potting mix is called a “closed terrarium.”
It differs from an open terrarium in that it contains a lid or cover,
which aids in providing the plants inside with a humid atmosphere.
Due to their high humidity requirements,
tropical plants like snake plant does well in this kind of terrarium.
The cover also shields the terrarium from pests and other pests, keeping the plants healthy.
Are aloe vera or African Violets acceptable plants for terrariums?
They are both suitable plants to use in terrariums.
A succulent known as aloe vera grows best in warm,
they can be grown in an open terrarium with plenty of light and prefer dry conditions.
A flowering plant called an African violet enjoys milder temperatures and indirect sunlight.
such that they are the perfect choices for enclosed terrariums.
Both plants should be watched over and given regular hydration.
…for indications of either over- or under-watering.
They are two plants that, with the right care, can look stunning in any terrarium.
Best Plants For Terrariums
Snake Plants
Snake plants can thrive in an open terrarium.
You can keep the beautiful terrarium framing, and with the open pot…
…you can make use of the snake plant air-purifying quality.
Anthurium
Beautiful epiphytes that prefer humidity and airflow, with dwarf varieties that work well in terrariums.
Calathea
Loves humidity, but is too prone to root rot in a closed terrarium.
Pothos
Because this plant likes to spread out, it’s ideal for a hanging, partially open terrarium.
Air Plant
Because you’ll be watering these soilless plants by dunking them in a jar…,
…you’ll want to keep the air plants in a container with easy access.
Croton
A cool plant with glossy leaves and brightly colored speckles.
Bromeliad
This family’s plants produce beautiful, long-lasting flowers;
Many are epiphytes that benefit from good air flow.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera adds a distinctive texture and color to any terrarium, making it a wonderful addition.
Aloe vera, often known as the snake plant, does best in an airy, open terrarium with lots of light.
In order to keep your Aloe Vera in an open terrarium healthy,
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and only water it when necessary.
When placing your aloe vera in a terrarium with a clear lid,
Put it in a location that receives strong indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Trim any dead or yellowing leaves from your aloe vera as necessary to keep it looking its best.
Polka Dot Plant
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A stunning and simple-to-care-for houseplant that can flourish in an open terrarium…
…is the polka dot plant, also known by the scientific name Hypoestes phyllostachya.
Small, spherical leaves with white or pink dots make up its distinctive foliage,
which gives any area a pop of color.
Water this low-maintenance plant when the soil seems dry to the touch.
It prefers bright, indirect light.
The polka dot plant will produce a magnificent display of greenery…
…and color when put in an open terrarium.
Zebra Haworthia
Succulents of the Zebra Haworthia species are indigenous to South Africa.
It has distinctive zebra-like features thanks to its fleshy,
broad leaves that have white stripes running down the margins.
The plant requires little attention and can survive in an open terrarium.
To avoid root rot, it needs strong light and soil that drains properly.
Due to the plant’s ability to store water in its leaves, watering should be used carefully.
The Zebra Haworthia is a wonderful addition to any open terrarium…
…since it grows slowly but steadily with proper care.
House leek
House Leek (Sempervivum tectorum) is a succulent plant that is native to Europe and North Africa.
It has thick, fleshy leaves that are usually green or gray-green in color.
The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and can reach up to 4 inches in diameter.
House Leek is an ideal choice for an open terrarium as it requires…
…little maintenance and can tolerate dry conditions.
It also produces small, star-shaped flowers during the summer months…
…which add a splash of color to any terrarium display.
Planting Tips or Hacks for Closed or Open Terrarium Plants
To grow and care your plants, choose plants with comparable preferences,
regardless of the type you choose.
When plants grow on the same requirements, it’s much easier to maintain them healthy.
Keep track of their dormancy cycles as well.
Which plants are considered closed terrarium plants?
The beauty of nature can be brought inside with the help of closed terrariums.
They are self-sufficient ecosystems that require low maintenance.
…and can be used to create a distinct, alive environment.
Usually, plants that do well in wet, moist surroundings with low light are used in closed terrariums.
Other common plants for enclosed terrariums include ferns, mosses,
snake plants, jade plants, begonias, ivy, and Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia.
For rich, verdant settings, ferns and mosses are perfect…
…while Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia add vivid splashes of color to the terrarium.
Ivy is a great option for giving the terrarium texture and interest.
Indoor plant such as snake plants and jade plants provide an intriguing vertical aspect, meanwhile.
In a closed terrarium’s warm, humid climate, all of these plants will flourish…
…and will help you do some indoor gardening by creating a lovely indoor miniature garden.
Plant Care
The most important preference to match is the watering requirement and soil type,
but you should also consider your selection’s preferred light.
If you want to grow succulent plants,
keep in mind that not all of them are sun worshippers who enjoy baking in the sun.
Choose plants that will thrive in your terrarium and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Since they can withstand heat and droughts, succulents with thick leaves…
…that hold water are usually suitable candidates for terrarium life.
Darker succulents, on average, tolerate less light than lighter succulents.
Open Terrarium Succulents For Direct Light
Let’s dive in!
- Echeveria: This low-growing Central American succulent has rosette flower-shaped leaves. They aren’t bothered by confined spaces. There are numerous varieties, including the renowned purple-leaved “Neon Breakers,” as well as variegated specimens. Late in the season, Echeverias grow flowers on stalks.
- Sedum: This diverse family is known as “Stonecrop” because it is tough and forgiving of poor soil. They thrive in full sun but may take partial shade. It’s an easy-to-grow plant for beginners. The Burro’s Tail is a popular variation.
- Agave: This succulent has a lot of different textures and adds a lot of volume to a scene. They are usually slow-growing, hardy, and enjoy spending time in the sun. Although many Agaves are landscape plants, there are some lovely little kinds that can live in a terrarium for a long time before outgrowing it. The victoriae reginae is a popular dwarf variety.
- Aloe: Aloe comes in over 400 different species and hybrids, including tiny miniatures that survive in open terrariums. They like a lot of suns, but not too much of it. Guido, Crosby’s prolific, humilis, and the variegated Aloe descoingsii are also suitable kinds.
Open Terrarium For Indirect Light
Now, we jump out to indirect light plants!
- Dwarf Sansevieria: This smaller cousin of the ever-popular and long-lasting Snake Plant is easy to care for and grows to a height of six inches. Its straplike variegated foliage contrasts nicely with blockier succulents. It can accept a wide range of bright light, indirect sunlight but loses some striping in low-light situations. It grows slowly, so water sparingly.
- Jade Plant: Most jades will outgrow their terrariums eventually, although they grow slowly and react nicely to pruning. Because of this, they make excellent bonsai plants. Jades prefer intense indirect light but can work in a variety of settings. The Hobbit Jade is a one-of-a-kind specimen that thrives in terrariums.
- Ball Cactus: The genus Parodia contains many easy-to-grow squat, small cacti that are ideal for an open terrarium. Their spines are frequently unique and showy. They dislike direct sunlight and require slightly more water than other succulents. Parodia haselbergii and leninghausii are two excellent cultivars.
- Sempervivum: Another member of the Crassula genus, which also contains Jade, Sedum, and Echeveria. Sempervivum is also known as a “Hen and Chick” plant, however unlike Echeverias, it dies after flowering. It forms bunches of fleshy leaves in the shape of a rosette. At different seasons of the year, the plant takes on varied hues.
Perks of an Open Terrarium
There’s a reason why open terrariums are so popular.
For starters, they’re an excellent way to get started if you’re new to terrariums.
You’ll still have to deal with everything that goes into constructing your terrarium…
…and selecting your terrarium plants, but you won’t have to worry about…
…the several factors that can kill a terrarium that are present in closed designs.
As a result, terrariums become more versatile in terms of home decor.
Geometric succulent terrariums and hanging plants terrariums are…
…also popular, and while they are usually more ornamental than horticultural,..
…they have several advantages.
They are as follows:
- Better air circulation for your terrarium plants
- Reduced rot and mold risk
- More tolerant
- There are no condensation issues.
Knowing Your Type of Terrarium : Closed Vs. Open Terrarium
The traditional terrarium is a closed environment in which moisture is recycled repeatedly.
However, you can take a halfway approach (or a 23, 34, etc. approach)…
…by using a container with an open top or side.
This will still retain some moisture and create a more humid…
…environment than a regular pot.
However, it will not be as steamy as a fully enclosed terrarium.
Closed terrariums are ideal for plants that thrive in moist environments…
…such as swamps, streams, or cloud forests.
Sphagnum mosses and button ferns and…
…creeping tropical vines like the String of Turtles thrive in terrariums.
Open terrariums are ideal for species that prefer humidity…
…but also require some air flow.
Many aroid plants, such as Anthuriums and Monsteras, thrive in this type of environment.
Plants that grow tall or climb high, which can be difficult…
…to contain in a closed terrarium, benefit from open terrariums.
There are also some differences in maintenance.
Plant care in an open terrarium is similar to caring for a houseplant in a standard pot.
You should check the watering requirements, if there is more humidity,
and the lack of drainage holes necessitates…
…extreme caution regarding overwatering.
Aside from that, you can pretty much stick to the standard…
…care procedures for the houseplants you’ve chosen.
A closed terrarium requires less frequent watering and maintenance,
but you should still be mindful of excess water.
You may need to prune the plants regularly to keep them contained,
and watch out for mold, excessive condensation, and overheating.
So, are open terrariums good for succulents?
The best way to showcase succulents, including snake plants, is in open terrariums.
These terrariums offer the plant the perfect setting,
allowing it to enjoy lots of light and air circulation while still being shielded from inclement weather.
Additionally, the open layout makes it simple for the plant to get nutrients and water,
both of which are necessary for maintaining its health.
The open layout also contributes to a distinctive look that the entire family may appreciate.
Maintaining an open terrarium
Keeping an open terrarium with a snake plant is reasonably simple…
…and can be completed with very little effort.
The secret to success is supplying the ideal environment for your snake plant to prosper.
Here are some tips for keeping your open terrarium with a snake plant healthy and happy:
1. Supply lots of light
For the optimal light conditions, snake plants prefer bright indirect light,
so put your terrarium in an area that receives plenty of natural light but not direct sunlight.
If you don’t have access to natural light, artificial lighting such as fluorescent or LED bulbs can be used.
2. Water moderately
Snake plants are drought tolerant and do not require frequent watering;
in fact, overwatering can cause root rot and other concerns.
When watering your snake plant, make sure the soil is completely dry before adding more water.
3. Maintain humidity levels
Snake plants prefer high humidity levels,
so it is essential to keep the air around them moist by misting the leaves…
…regularly or using a humidifier if necessary.
4. Fertilize occasionally
While snake plants do not require routine fertilizing,
they will benefit from a light application of fertilizer every few months.
Choose a balanced liquid fertilizer and use it according to the guidelines on the package.
5. Prune routinely
Snake plants can become leggy gradually,
so it’s essential to prune them routinely to keep them looking their best.
Use sharp scissors or shears to trim off any dead or dying leaves and stems.
What if the plants are slow growing plants?
If the terrarium’s plants are slowly developing,
It’s crucial to have patience and avoid overwatering them.
In order for the plants to flourish, it is also crucial to supply sufficient light and humidity.
If there is a snake plant grows in the terrarium, it can endure dim lighting and infrequent watering.
Consequently, it can be a wise decision for a slow-growing setting.
Adding fertilizer to the soil every few months might also aid in fostering development.
Sum Up
The answer is yes!
You can use open terrarium for snake plant, like we already mentioned above.
Conclusion
You can see all those houseplants are easy to find.
Now, we hope you make an open terrarium on your own to enhance your day!
Frequenty Asked Questions Around Open Terrarium
What is an open terrarium?
A terrarium is a type of glass or ceramic container that is used to grow plants indoors.
It’s similar in design to an indoor garden, but the key difference…
…is that it lacks soil and instead relies on plant juices and…
…water absorbed from the air to nourish the plants.
This creates an environment that mimics natural conditions…
…better than traditional gardens, which can help your plants absorb…
…more nutrients and grow faster.
Is closed or open terrarium better?
The choice between a closed or an open terrarium is ultimately a personal preference.
Closed terrariums are easier to care for and provide better…
…humidity levels and warmer temperatures.
However, open terrariums offer more natural light…
…and opportunities for you to see your plants up close.
Do you water an open terrarium?
It is generally recommended that you water an open terrarium on a regular basis,
but this depends on the climate and humidity of your home.
If it’s dry out there, you should make sure to water the plants more often to ensure they don’t dry out.
In humid or rainy conditions, it is important to keep the plants well-watered so they don’t get too wet.
You can either use a sprayer or fill one corner of the terrarium with enough water…
…to cover the roots of the plants (but avoid soaking any furniture).
Dry conditions should also be taken into account when watering your snake plant in an open terrarium,
make sure to provide enough moisture for the plant without over-watering it.
How long do open terrariums last?
Like all things related to plants and flowers, open terrariums…
…will eventually need to be replaced.
While there is no set time limit, replacing your terrarium…
…every 3-6 months is generally recommended.
The main reason for this is that the environment inside a terrarium…
…can become too dry or too wet, which can lead to damage or disease.
Additionally, some of the plant materials may start to rot if they are not replaced regularly.
Why are my plants dying in my terrarium?
A few potential causes behind plants dying in a terrarium include overwatering,
too much sunlight or artificial lighting, high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation,
and lack of a drainage layer.
Overfeeding of plants can also lead to other health problems in the plant.
If you notice that your plants are wilting or declining in vigor,
it is important to take note of the conditions that led to their…
…demise and make any necessary adjustments such as…
…adding a drainage layer so that they will be able to survive again.
What is the best growing season for terrarium plants?
The best season for terrarium plants is typically during the spring and summer months,
when temperatures are warmer and there is more sunlight.
During this time, the plants will have access to more nutrients and water, allowing them to thrive.
Are carnivorous plants good choices for a terrarium?
No, carnivorous plants are not a good choice for terrariums.
They require specific growing conditions that are difficult to replicate in a closed environment.
Additionally, they need to be able to hunt and capture their prey,
which is not possible in an enclosed space.
