Transform Your Small Apartment with DIY Mini Terrariums: A Complete Guide
Photo by Yusong He on Unsplash
Why Terrariums Are Perfect for Small Apartments
Urban living often means limited space, but that doesn’t have to limit your connection with nature. Mini terrariums are ideal for small apartments because they require minimal space, can thrive in indirect light, and serve as both décor and a personal green escape. Unlike traditional houseplants, terrariums are self-contained ecosystems that recycle water and need infrequent maintenance, making them perfect for busy lifestyles or those new to plant care [1] .
Understanding Terrarium Types and Their Benefits
There are two main types of terrariums: closed and open . Closed terrariums are sealed environments ideal for humidity-loving plants like mosses and ferns, while open terrariums suit drought-resistant varieties such as succulents and cacti. For small apartments, closed terrariums are often favored due to their self-sustaining nature-meaning less watering and upkeep [1] [3] . Open terrariums, however, can add a modern touch and are better for rooms with lower humidity.
Step-by-Step Guide: Building Your Own Mini Terrarium
Creating a terrarium at home is straightforward, even for beginners. Here’s a detailed, actionable process:
1. Gather Your Materials
For most mini terrariums, you will need:
- A clear container (glass jars, bottles, or even small fish tanks work well)
- Small rocks or pebbles for drainage
- Activated charcoal to prevent odor and mold (optional but recommended)
- Potting soil or a mix of sand, sphagnum moss, and soil for better drainage
- Selected plants (see below for suggestions)
- Long tweezers or chopsticks for placing items inside the container
- A spray bottle for misting
You can find these supplies at local garden centers, craft stores, or through verified online retailers. When purchasing online, always use established platforms such as Amazon or Etsy for genuine reviews and verified products [1] [2] .
2. Layer for Drainage and Soil
Start by adding a 2-3 inch layer of small pebbles or clay pebbles at the base of your container. This allows excess water to drain away from plant roots and prevents rot. If you have activated charcoal, spread a thin layer over the pebbles to keep the environment fresh. Next, add 2-4 inches of your chosen soil mix. For closed terrariums, a combination of potting soil, sand, and moss works best to balance moisture and drainage [3] [4] .
3. Select and Arrange Your Plants
Opt for slow-growing, humidity-loving plants for closed terrariums. Good choices include:
- Mosses (sheet moss, cushion moss)
- Miniature ferns
- Baby tears
- Fittonia (nerve plant)
For open terrariums, succulents like crassula, sedum, or echeveria are excellent since they tolerate drier conditions. Use tweezers to position plants gently into the soil, leaving space for growth. Avoid overcrowding-plants will expand over time and compete for light and nutrients [1] [4] .
4. Add Decorative Elements
Personalize your terrarium with small decorative stones, miniature figurines, or natural elements like twigs and seed pods. These additions create visual interest and make your terrarium a unique statement piece. Ensure all decorative items are waterproof and inert to avoid introducing toxins [4] .
5. Water and Seal
For closed terrariums, lightly mist the soil and plants before sealing the container. The system will naturally recirculate water through condensation. For open terrariums, water sparingly-succulents require less moisture, and overwatering is a common mistake. Monitor your terrarium for the first few weeks and adjust as needed [1] [4] .
Care and Maintenance in Small Spaces
Terrariums are low-maintenance, but some attention is required for optimal results. Place your terrarium in a spot with bright, indirect light-direct sunlight can overheat and damage the plants [1] . Keep away from radiators or heating vents. For closed terrariums, open occasionally if excessive condensation builds up. For open designs, check soil moisture weekly and remove any dead leaves to prevent mold.
In small apartments, terrariums can be placed on shelves, windowsills, or as a centerpiece on tables. Their compact size means you can even create multiple themed terrariums for different rooms or moods [3] .
Photo by Elite prop on Unsplash
Common Challenges and Solutions
Overwatering: This is the most common issue. Always err on the side of underwatering, especially in closed terrariums. If mold or fungus appears, remove affected parts and decrease watering frequency.
Plant Overgrowth: Some plants may outcompete others. Trim back fast growers and remove any plants that seem unhealthy to keep the ecosystem balanced.
Insufficient Light: If your apartment lacks natural light, consider using a small LED grow light designed for plants. Many reputable retailers sell these, and they can be found by searching for “LED grow light for terrariums” on trusted online marketplaces [2] .
Alternative Approaches and Creative Ideas
If traditional glass jars or bottles are not readily available, alternatives include small fishbowls, teacups, or even upcycled food containers. Be creative with your containers, but always prioritize transparency and size to ensure your plants receive adequate light and air circulation.
For those looking to expand their skills, try layering different plant varieties for depth, incorporating miniature landscapes, or experimenting with nano terrariums (using tiny corked glass bottles and moss) for ultra-compact displays [1] .
How to Source Materials and Find Support
You can purchase terrarium supplies from major online retailers like Amazon or Etsy. For those who prefer in-person shopping, local garden centers or craft stores often stock the necessary items. If you need detailed guidance, many botanical gardens and plant shops offer workshops or classes on terrarium building. Search for “terrarium workshop near me” to find local options.
If you want inspiration, numerous blogs and YouTube channels provide step-by-step tutorials, care tips, and design ideas. Verified platforms like YouTube have countless instructional videos, such as “How To Make a Terrarium: An In-Depth Tutorial” [2] . For detailed written guides and plant suggestions, reputable blogs like Terrarium Tribe and House + Plant are excellent resources [1] [3] .
Key Takeaways for Apartment Dwellers
Mini terrariums are a practical, aesthetic solution for those seeking greenery in small living spaces. Their adaptability, minimal care needs, and design flexibility make them ideal for apartment life. By following the steps and tips above, you can create your own thriving mini ecosystem in even the smallest of homes.
