Terrariums 101: The Art and Science of Creating Your Own Miniature Green World
- Verdure Studio
- Jul 28
- 4 min read
Terrariums have been stealing the spotlight in interior design magazines and Instagram feeds for years, and for good reason. They’re low-maintenance, endlessly customizable, and have that miniature world charm that makes people stop and stare. Whether you want a sophisticated living centerpiece for your dining table, a mood-boosting accent for your office, or just a fun creative project, terrariums are perfect for plant lovers at every level.
At Verdure Studio, we design with plants in mind, not just to look stunning, but to fit your lifestyle. And terrariums? They’re one of the easiest ways to dip your toes (or, well, your trowel) into the world of living décor. Here’s everything you need to know to create a succulent terrarium of your own and keep it thriving.
What Exactly Is a Terrarium (and Why Should You Care)?
A terrarium is essentially a miniature indoor garden housed inside a glass container. Think of it as your own tiny ecosystem, self-contained, visually striking, and (when done right) surprisingly easy to maintain. Why people love them:
Low Maintenance: Most terrariums, especially closed ones, create a mini water cycle, so they require less frequent watering.
Compact Size: Perfect for apartments, home offices, or anywhere short on space.
Design Flexibility: From modern geometric glass bowls to vintage apothecary jars, there’s a terrarium style for everyone.
Conversation Starter: Few things draw attention like a perfectly styled miniature world on your coffee table.
Open vs. Closed Terrariums: Which One Is Right for You?
Before you grab your plants and a trendy glass container, you need to know there are two main terrarium types, and choosing the right one matters.
Closed Terrariums:
Ideal for tropical plants like ferns and mosses
Maintain high humidity inside (like a little rainforest)
Require almost no watering once established
Open Terrariums:
Perfect for plants that like airflow, like succulents and cacti
Easier to style for a modern look
Require occasional watering but thrive in drier conditions
Not sure which one you want? If you’re new to plant care and want something practically foolproof, go with an open terrarium, especially one filled with hardy succulents.
Need ideas? Check out 10 Easy-to-Care-for Succulents for Beginners to see our top picks.
Choosing the Right Plants (Hint: Not Every Plant Works)
The key to terrarium success is choosing plants that share similar needs:
Closed terrariums: Stick to humidity-loving plants like moss, ferns, small begonias, and baby tears.
Open terrariums: Think succulents, cacti, and air plants—plants that thrive in dry, well-ventilated environments.
One of the most common mistakes? Mixing moisture-loving tropicals with drought-resistant succulents in the same container. They may look good at first, but their water and light needs are too different to cohabitate peacefully.
Terrarium Layering 101: Building Your Mini Ecosystem
The secret to a beautiful, thriving terrarium lies in its layers. Here’s the basic recipe:
Container: Choose a glass vessel with an opening wide enough for your hand. Geometric, fishbowl, or apothecary jars all work.
Drainage Layer: Add 1–2 inches of small rocks or pebbles. This prevents root rot by keeping excess water away from the roots.
Charcoal Layer: Activated charcoal keeps things fresh and prevents odors (especially important for closed terrariums).
Soil: Use a soil mix suited to your plants, cactus mix for succulents, moisture-retaining mix for tropicals.
Plants: Arrange taller plants first, then medium, then small ground covers for visual balance.
Decor (optional): Add stones, driftwood, or miniature figures for that whimsical touch.
For succulents, keep soil depth shallow and avoid over-packing, airflow is your friend.
Styling Tips: From Cute to Showstopper
If you want your terrarium to look magazine-worthy:
Go Asymmetrical: Group plants slightly off-center to create movement and interest.
Mix Textures: Pair spiky succulents with smooth moss or trailing vines for visual contrast.
Add a Focal Point: A piece of driftwood, quartz crystal, or even a quirky figurine can make your terrarium feel intentional, not accidental.
Think Color: Play with plant colors, blue-green echeveria next to bright green moss looks gorgeous.
Terrariums are more than just plants in a jar, they’re tiny expressions of your personal style.
Terrarium Care: Keeping Your Miniature World Alive
Terrariums are low-maintenance, but not no maintenance. Here’s what you need to do:
Watering: Closed terrariums need water maybe once a month or less. Open terrariums (especially with succulents) need watering every 2–3 weeks. Always check soil moisture first.
Light: Place near bright, indirect light. Direct sun can heat up a closed terrarium too much (think “greenhouse effect”).
Pruning: Trim dead leaves and any plants that outgrow their space.
Cleaning: Wipe the glass regularly so it looks as stunning as the day you made it.
Why Terrariums Make Perfect Gifts (and Group Activities)
Terrariums aren’t just great for your own space, they’re perfect for:
Housewarming gifts
Client appreciation gifts (unique and sustainable)
Corporate events or team-building activities
In fact, our Succulent Workshops often focus on terrariums because they’re fun, interactive, and offer everyone a chance to create something unique. Whether it’s a birthday, bridal shower, or corporate team retreat, terrarium-making is as memorable as it is creative.
Want to know why workshops are so popular? Read Why Succulent Workshops Make the Perfect Group Event.
A Small World with Big Style
A terrarium is more than just a pretty plant display, it’s a little ecosystem, a science experiment, and a design statement all rolled into one. Whether you go tropical and closed or desert-dry and open, a well-crafted terrarium adds life, creativity, and personality to any space.
Want to skip the trial and error? Join one of Verdure Studio’s Succulent Workshops where we bring everything you need to your location: plants, containers, expert tips, and all the creative vibes. You’ll leave with your own custom-designed terrarium and the know-how to keep it thriving.
Read more on What to Expect at a Succulent Workshop.
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