Learn how to build your own open terrarium, ideal for Succulents & Cacti. Our free illustrated step by step guide shows you each stage of turning your terrarium kit into a beautiful enclosed haven for succulents cacti and more.
What is an Open Terrarium
An open terrarium is similar to a closed terrarium with the exception of a lid. I.E. it is not sealed off from the external environment.
Some plants will not tolerate a closed terrarium due to lack of air flow and high moisture levels. Succulent and cactus plants are good examples as they prefer an arid (dry) environment. This is where an open terrarium can provide the prefect conditions to grow certain plants (such as succulents and cacti) within your home. An open terrarium allows for good air flow and provides a more arid environment for desert dwelling succulents and cacti.
What will you need?
Check out the kits in our open terrarium collection. Each is available with everything you need to build an open terrarium, including live plants.
If you already have a vase you wish to turn into an open terrarium, check out our amazing open terrarium starter kit.
Useful Assembly Tools
A cup - To scoop in the compost and gravel.
Tweezers - For reaching and placing fiddly components. Tweezers available to purchase here.
1: Gather and lay out your open terrarium kit contents
Plan your arrangement before you start. Just lay out your plants and sundries to get an idea of how you want them to look. Grouping them together centrally is a good technique.
2: Add a bottom layer of gravel
Add some of the gravel to the container. Push it out towards the sides making a deep well in the middle. Pour in very gently to avoid damaging the container.
3: Add activated charcoal
Add a small amount of activated charcoal to the center of the terrarium. Note: Smaller terrariums do not require activated charcoal.
4: Add terrarium compost
Add compost to the center of the terrarium where you want your plants to sit. Note: Only use specialist open terrarium compost suitable for cacti and succulents.
5: Add plants to the terrarium
Make wells in your terrarium compost large enough to hold your plant root ball.
Loosten any soil around the roots of your plants then position your plants as desired.
6: Cover the plant roots and smooth out your terrarium compost
Move compost to cover the roots and hold the plants in place. Do not compact the soil around your plants.
7: Add top gravel (optional)
Add a thin layer of gravel on top of the soil to completely cover it. Avoid covering the plant leaves as much as possible.
8: Add any moss and other decorative materials
Add any decorative moss around your plants as desired. Tear this as required to suit your terrarium.
Add any decorative stones or other sundries to your terrarium. Nestle these amongst the plants and moss to create a natural textured feel and add interest to your terrarium.
9: Add a little water to your terrarium
Tilt your terrarium and pour the water down the inside of the glass. Be very sparing with the water. The soil should be slightly damp but not saturated. Remember, you can always add more water at a later date if needed.
10: Choose a home for your open terrarium and enjoy!
You now have a beautiful open terrarium to love and nurture.
Place your terrarium in a light spot.
Although a relatively maintenance-free eco-system, plants will require watering and perhaps a trim from time to time.
