What is a Terrarium?
A closed terrarium is a sealed glass vessel that houses a miniature ecosystem.
Due to the water cycle and photosynthesis naturally occurring in the glass vessel, a self-sustainable, long-lasting microworld is created.
Under optimal conditions and with proper care, terrariums can last for decades. However, the average terrarium typically lasts between four months and two years. Factors such as light, moisture, temperature, plant selection, and container size all significantly influence a terrarium's lifespan.
The Terrarium Layers
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Terrarium History
Like many amazing inventions, the terrarium was created by accident.
The story tells of Dr. Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward in London, 1829.
Dr. Ward was an enthusiastic botanist and insect lover.
He set up an experiment that had nothing to do with plants, but they soon became the main focus. Ward collected several moth cocoons and placed them in a glass case, along with a handful of soil from his garden, in which he had tried to grow ferns several years earlier (with no success due to the heavy air pollution from the Industrial Revolution).
Ward wasn't aware that there were hidden fern spores in the soil he collected. After a short time in the warm and humid environment, he noticed a few fernlings sprouting.
Over the next four years, they grew into large, healthy plants within the glass case. Ward understood the potential of his discovery and hired a carpenter to build a glazed vessel, later known as the Wardian case.
That case was the beginning of terrariums.
At first, they were not decorative elements but were used for shipping rare and fragile plants from continent to continent. Thanks to Ward's invention, tropical plants were able to be studied and eventually mass-produced in countries outside their origin.
The cases became increasingly in demand by the European elite, who began to use Wardian cases as fashion statements to show off their wealth.
Nowadays, terrariums are no longer a statement of wealth. Anyone can enjoy keeping humidity-loving plants right in their living room.
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The Terrarium water cycle
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The Terrarium Photosynthesis and Carbon dioxide cycle
Care tips!
Maintaining your self-sustaining ecosystem requires minimal maintenance. However, here are some tips to help you ensure that your closed terrarium remains healthy and beautiful.
Placement:
Place your terrarium in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause the plants to overheat. Alternatively, use a grow light for at least eight hours per day. Remember to give your plants some complete darkness so they can produce oxygen, which is essential for the ecosystem cycle.
Watering:
Closed terrariums require very little water. Water the terrarium only when the soil is dry to the touch or when you see no condensation on the glass. Tap water is not recommended for terrariums. Use distilled water, reverse osmosis water, or rainwater.
Use a spray bottle to water the plants, making sure not to overwater.
Pruning:
Eventually, your plants will need to be pruned to keep them at a suitable size. Use a pair of scissors and gently prune. Make sure to remove the pruned parts from the terrarium.
Ventilation:
Closed terrariums require little ventilation, but it's essential to open the lid occasionally to allow fresh air to circulate. This will prevent the build-up of excess moisture. It's also lovely to smell your little forest once in a while.
Soil and Fertilization:
The soil in your closed terrarium should be well-draining and nutrient-rich. Depending on the plant's needs, you may need to add fertilizer over time. When you do, I recommend adding a layer of vermicast. If you have moss, gently remove it, add the vermicast, spray it with water, and then place the moss back.
Pest Control and Mold:
Mold can appear in your terrarium, especially if you used wood as a hardscape. If wood is molding, first remove the infected piece and brush the mold off.
You can boil the wood for 30-120 minutes, let it dry for 72 hours, and treat it with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (sold in any pharmacy) or spray the wood with white vinegar. Once completely dried, put it back and monitor the developments.
If you have mold in your terrarium, open the lid to increase airflow, and make sure the terrarium is getting enough light but not direct sunlight.
Because your terrarium is a microcosm, it might attract small insects like tiny fruit flies that can get in through small cracks between the glass vessel and the lid.
You can open the lid and place a glass with vinegar or red wine to attract the flies.
Pests like spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs can also find their way into your terrarium if you used moss. Use natural remedies such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, or rubbing alcohol to keep the pests at bay.
Cleaning:
Wipe the inside of the terrarium with a clean, damp cloth from time to time to remove any dirt or dust.
By following these tips, you can maintain a beautiful and healthy closed terrarium that will thrive for years.