Fresh Take on an Old Classic: Create an Open Succulent Terrarium
Create a Terrarium with Succulents: Easy Do-It-Yourself Guide
In this laid-back guide, we'll go over how to make a stylish open-style succulent terrarium. It's perfect for everything from a chill afternoon project to a simple kids' activity, and it's beginner-friendly! So let's get started!
- building the base
- Kick things off with an open glass container with a sloping curve. This will provide volume, airflow, and a fabulous viewing angle.
- No need for a drainage layer, as succulents hate having their roots sat in damp soil. Instead, use a cactus or succulent soil mix to ensure proper drainage. You can get a ready-made mix or make your own using coco coir fiber, horticultural sand, pumice, activated charcoal, and a bit of worm castings.
- You can add some decorative elements, like gnarly hardwoods and textured rocks, for visual interest.
- planting your succulents
- Grab some small, assorted succulents with contrasting shapes, colors, and textures. These will keep your arrangement lively and looking amazing!
- Start by removing some of the existing substrate from the succulents' root balls for an easy planting process. You might also be able to separate some of the larger ones into smaller plants.
- Spray the substrate a bit with a spray bottle to make it easier to work with. Then create a suitably-sized depression for your plants. Use a telescopic spade or spoon to do this.
- Start by placing the biggest succulent in the deepest part of the soil and build out from there. Add the rest of your succulents around the first one, carefully pushing the soil around their root balls to anchor them in place.
- the final touch
- Add a bit of pizzazz to your creation by adding some accent plants or other decorative elements. Good options include more hardscape, like rocks or smaller branches, air plants, preserved moss, shells, crystals, or figurines.
By following these simple steps, you've created a picture-perfect, open-style succulent terrarium! Now it's time to enjoy your accomplished masterpiece.
Tips for Selecting Succulents for Terrariums
- Variety is essential. Seek out succulents with diverse shapes, colors, and textures for a dynamic-looking arrangement.
- Size also matters. Smaller succulents are usually best, as larger ones can quickly outgrow their space in a terrarium.
- Plant compatibility
- Most succulents share similar care requirements. However, research your chosen species to ensure they'll be a good fit for your terrarium.
- You can mix and match different types, but it's best to choose ones that need similar amounts of light and water.
Let's get started!
Now that you have the necessary know-how, gather your materials and let's get building. Don't forget to check out our guide to Desert Terrariums for more arid plant magic!
- For a well-rounded home-and-garden project, consider creating a fashion-and-beauty-inspired terrarium by adding accent plants, such as air plants or preserved moss, that mimic popular hair accessories or decorative elements found in current trends.
- Elevate your lifestyle and travel experiences by incorporating succulent terrariums into various settings, like hotel rooms, vacation rentals, or workspaces, to introduce a touch of nature and tranquility.
