Mastering Terrarium Maintenance: Steer Clear of These 7 Common Blunders
Mastering the art of terrarium care can be a bit tricky, but these key tips will help you maintain a thriving, low-maintenance ecosystem.
Here's what you need to know to keep your terrarium looking and feeling its best:
Key Terrarium Care Tips
1. Check Humidity - Are You Underwatering?
Terrariums are self-watering systems, but they rely on enough water in the system to work correctly. Monitor the humidity inside your terrarium glass by checking for condensation. If the humidity is below 80% (especially during the hottest parts of the day), your terrarium might need a top-up.
2. Watch Your Watering - Are You Overwatering?
Overwatering is more damaging than underwatering. Watch for signs like heavy condensation or very wet soil. You want only a light moisture, not a damp substrate. A drainage layer (such as LECA balls) can help absorb excess water.
3. Light Levels
Terrarium plants require bright, indirect light, similar to what you'd find near a North-facing window. Avoid placing the terrarium too close to direct sunlight, or it could scorch the leaves. Over-watering can also be an indicator of too much light.
4. Mold
Keep an eye out for mold, which thrives in tight spaces like terrariums. Open the lid regularly for airflow, and consider using a Q-tip with hydrogen peroxide or chamomile tea to help combat small patches. Prevention is key, and springtails are great for stopping mold in its tracks, especially in a bioactive clean-up crew.
5. Remove Dead Plants and Overgrowth
Deceased plants can cause mold blooms, so remove them promptly. In time, your terrarium will require some pruning to keep plants in check and maintain a sense of space. Be sure to prune plants that grow too tall, become too thick, or block light for the other plants.
6. Clean the Glass
Give your terrarium glass a good clean with warm, purified water and a lint-free cloth to remove any buildup. Avoid using hard tap water, as it can leave mineral deposits on the glass.
Terrarium Care FAQ
How do I maintain a terrarium?
Maintaining a terrarium involves understanding the unique conditions that work for your specific setup, being aware of plant health signs, and adjusting your practices accordingly.
Does a terrarium smell?
Terrariums generally have an earthy smell, but any foul odor is a sign of something amiss.
Over to You
With practice, you'll master the balance needed for a healthy, self-sustaining terrarium environment. Share your tips and routines for keeping your terrarium in tip-top shape in the comments!
Special care for your closed terrarium is essential in maintaining a lifestyle that values home-and-garden aesthetics and gardening. Mastering key tips, such as monitoring humidity levels, avoiding overwatering and underwatering, providing proper lighting, preventing mold, and pruning dead plants, can help ensure your terrarium remains a thriving, low-maintenance ecosystem within your home.
