Imagine a miniature, self-contained world thriving right on your windowsill. That’s the magic of a terrarium! But creating one isn’t always as simple as it looks. Have you ever bought a plant that wilted away in its glass home, leaving you frustrated and wondering what went wrong? Choosing the right plants is key to a successful and beautiful terrarium, and it can feel overwhelming with so many choices.
Many people struggle to find plants that will truly flourish in the humid, enclosed environment of a terrarium. You want plants that are not too big, not too small, and that can handle the unique conditions. It’s easy to get lost in the endless aisles of nurseries, unsure which leafy companions will be happy and healthy in their new glass home.
Don’t worry! This post is here to guide you. We’ll explore the best plants for terrariums, explaining why they work so well. You’ll learn how to pick plants that will not only survive but thrive, turning your terrarium into a vibrant, miniature ecosystem. Get ready to discover the perfect greenery for your glass garden!
Our Top 5 Plants For Terrariums Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Plants For Terrariums Detailed Reviews
1. Mini Terrarium Plants (6 Plants) (2″ Pots) Fairy Garden Plants Assorted Varieties
Rating: 9.2/10
Bring a touch of magic to your home with these adorable Mini Terrarium Plants! This set includes six different small plants, each nestled in a 2-inch pot. They’re perfect for creating your own miniature enchanted world, whether it’s a bustling fairy garden or a serene terrarium landscape. These plants are super easy to care for and can even thrive in low-light spots, making them a fantastic choice for beginners or anyone looking to add a bit of green to a less sunny corner.
What We Like:
- You get six unique, small plants in 2-inch pots.
- Ordering multiple sets means even more plant variety! Two sets give you 12 different plants.
- These plants are super easy to care for, so you don’t need a green thumb.
- They are perfect for terrariums and fairy gardens, adding charm to any display.
- These plants tolerate low light, so you can place them in more spots.
What Could Be Improved:
- If you order more than three sets, you might get some duplicate plants.
- Be mindful of the weather! Avoid ordering when temperatures are below 38 or above 95 degrees Fahrenheit, as the plants could get damaged during shipping.
These mini terrarium plants are a delightful way to start or expand your miniature garden. They offer a simple and beautiful way to bring nature indoors.
2. Tin Roof Treasure Live Lichen Assortment 4″x6″ Bag for Terrariums and Fairy Gardens
Rating: 8.8/10
Bring a touch of wild, natural beauty to your miniature worlds with the Tin Roof Treasure Live Lichen Assortment. This 4″x6″ bag is packed with living lichen, ready to transform your terrariums, fairy gardens, and other creative projects. You’ll get a variety of interesting lichens, like the bright red British Soldier or the cup-shaped Pixie Cup, along with different kinds of Cladonia and soft Reindeer Moss. It’s all grown organically in Maine, ensuring a clean and natural addition to your displays.
What We Like:
- Adds instant natural beauty to terrariums and fairy gardens.
- Includes a delightful assortment of unique lichen types.
- Provides a realistic and organic touch for various miniature setups.
- Grown and harvested in Maine, promising a clean and natural product.
- Versatile for use in terrariums, vivariums, bonsai, reptile habitats, and home decor.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exact mix of lichen types can vary in each bag, so you might not get every single type mentioned.
- As live organisms, they require proper care and conditions to thrive in their new environment.
This lichen assortment offers a fantastic way to add authentic, living texture to your small-scale landscapes. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance the visual appeal of any miniature garden or habitat.
3. Mini Fern Plants (6 Plants) (2″ Pots) Terrariums
Rating: 8.8/10
Bring a touch of enchanting green to your home with this delightful set of 6 Mini Fern Plants. Each tiny fern comes nestled in its own cute 2-inch pot, making them absolutely perfect for creating your own miniature worlds. Whether you dream of building a magical terrarium or a whimsical fairy garden, these little green wonders are ready to be planted. You can also simply enjoy them as charming houseplants, adding a touch of nature to any windowsill or desk.
What We Like:
- You get a variety of different fern types, so each one looks unique.
- The small size is ideal for detailed projects like fairy gardens and terrariums.
- They come in their own little pots, so they are easy to handle and plant.
- These plants are a simple way to add a natural, peaceful feeling to your space.
- The price is great for getting six plants to start your collection.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some plants might arrive a little dry and need watering right away.
- The specific varieties of ferns you receive can change, so you might not get exactly what you expect.
- Because they are small, they require careful watering to keep them happy.
These mini ferns offer a fantastic and affordable way to start or expand your indoor jungle. They are a charming addition for any plant lover looking for a bit of magic.
4. Altman Plants
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking to add some green to your space without a lot of fuss? The Altman Plants Live Succulent Plants (20 Pack) offers a vibrant collection of easy-care, live houseplants. These little beauties come potted in a special cactus and succulent soil mix, ready to brighten up any room or outdoor area. With their exotic looks and low-maintenance needs, they’re perfect for beginners and busy plant lovers alike.
What We Like:
- These succulents are super easy to care for. They look amazing but don’t need much attention.
- They add a natural touch to any room decor. You can use them in terrariums, as accents, or on your patio.
- This pack is fantastic for gifts or party favors. They work great for DIY projects too.
- You get a good variety of different succulent types. Each plant arrives healthy and already rooted in its pot.
- The company promises that your plants will arrive alive and healthy. They also offer great customer service if you have questions.
- Each plant comes with helpful care instructions. They are carefully packaged by specialists to ensure safe arrival.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exact types of succulents you receive can vary. You might get duplicates or types not listed.
This 20-pack of Altman Plants succulents is a wonderful way to bring life and color into your home or give a thoughtful gift. You’ll love how simple they are to keep happy and how they transform your space.
5. Mini Terrarium Plants (2 Plants) Fairy Garden Plants (Assorted Varieties) (2″ Pots)
Rating: 9.4/10
Bring a touch of magic to your home with this delightful set of Mini Terrarium Plants! You’ll receive two charming, assorted varieties, each nestled in a 2-inch pot. These little green wonders are specially selected to thrive in terrariums and are a perfect addition to any fairy garden. Imagine tiny, vibrant landscapes coming to life on your desk or windowsill!
What We Like:
- Set of 2 Assorted Plants: You get two unique plants, adding variety and interest to your mini garden.
- Licensed to Ship to California: No need to worry if you’re in California, these plants are cleared for delivery!
- Perfect for Fairy Gardens/Terrariums: These plants are the ideal size and type for creating enchanting miniature worlds.
- Easy to Care For: Generally, these types of plants are beginner-friendly and don’t require complex care.
What Could Be Improved:
- COLD/HEAT SHIPPING NOTICE: You must be mindful of the weather. Do not order if temperatures are below 38°F or above 95°F. Plants might arrive damaged if shipped in extreme weather.
- Assorted Varieties: While exciting, you don’t get to choose the specific plants, so you might receive varieties you weren’t expecting.
These mini terrarium plants offer a wonderful way to add natural beauty and a whimsical touch to your living space. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before ordering to ensure your new green friends arrive in tip-top shape!
Choosing the Right Plants for Your Terrarium: A Green Thumb’s Guide
Creating a tiny, self-contained world in a glass container is a rewarding hobby. Terrariums bring a touch of nature indoors, and the right plants are key to their success. This guide will help you pick the perfect greenery for your miniature ecosystem.
Key Features to Look For in Terrarium Plants
When selecting plants for your terrarium, consider these important features:
- Size: Choose small plants that will fit comfortably in your container without outgrowing it quickly. Look for dwarf varieties or slow-growing species.
- Humidity Tolerance: Most terrariums are humid environments. Plants that love moisture will thrive. Avoid succulents and cacti that prefer dry air.
- Light Needs: Different plants need different amounts of light. Some prefer bright, indirect light, while others do well in lower light conditions. Match the plant’s needs to where you plan to place your terrarium.
- Growth Habit: Consider how the plant grows. Some creep along the ground, while others grow upright. A mix of growth habits can create visual interest.
- Toxicity: If you have pets or small children, make sure the plants you choose are not toxic.
Important Materials for a Thriving Terrarium
Beyond the plants themselves, a few key materials are essential for a healthy terrarium:
- Container: Glass containers like jars, bowls, or specialized terrarium vessels work best. Ensure it’s clean.
- Drainage Layer: Small stones or gravel at the bottom prevent water from pooling around the roots.
- Activated Charcoal: This layer helps filter the water and keeps the terrarium fresh by absorbing odors.
- Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for houseplants or terrariums. Avoid heavy garden soil.
- Tools: Small shovels, tweezers, and brushes help you plant and arrange your greenery.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can impact the quality and longevity of your terrarium:
- Good Drainage: This is crucial. Without proper drainage, roots will rot.
- Appropriate Watering: Overwatering is a common mistake. Water sparingly. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Adequate Light: Too much direct sun can scorch leaves. Too little light can cause plants to become leggy and weak.
- Air Circulation: For open terrariums, good air circulation is important. For closed terrariums, occasional airing can be beneficial.
- Plant Compatibility: Ensure the plants you choose have similar needs for light and humidity. Mixing plants with very different requirements can lead to problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
Terrariums offer a wonderful user experience. They are low-maintenance once established. They add a beautiful, natural element to any room.
- Beginner-Friendly: Many terrarium plants are forgiving, making them great for new plant enthusiasts.
- Decorative Accent: Terrariums can be stunning focal points on shelves, desks, or tables.
- Educational Tool: They offer a hands-on way to learn about plant growth and ecosystems.
- Gift Idea: A well-made terrarium makes a unique and thoughtful gift.
- Stress Relief: Caring for plants and watching them grow can be very calming.
Frequently Asked Questions About Terrarium Plants
Q: What are the best plants for beginners in a closed terrarium?
A: For beginners in closed terrariums, choose plants that love humidity and low light. Good options include nerve plants (Fittonia), polka dot plants (Hypoestes phyllostachya), and mosses. These plants are forgiving and thrive in the moist environment of a closed terrarium.
Q: Can I put succulents or cacti in a terrarium?
A: Generally, no. Succulents and cacti prefer dry conditions and good air circulation. Most terrariums are humid and lack sufficient airflow for these plants to thrive. They will likely rot.
Q: How often should I water my terrarium plants?
A: This depends on whether your terrarium is open or closed. For closed terrariums, watering is infrequent. You’ll know it’s time when you don’t see condensation on the glass. For open terrariums, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, similar to regular potted plants.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my terrarium?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix. A good option is a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. You can also find specialized terrarium potting mixes.
Q: Do terrarium plants need fertilizer?
A: Most terrarium plants do not need fertilizer. The enclosed environment recycles nutrients, and over-fertilizing can harm them. If you must fertilize, use a very diluted liquid fertilizer very sparingly, perhaps once a year.
Q: How much light do terrarium plants need?
A: Most terrarium plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can overheat the terrarium and scorch the plants. A spot near a window that doesn’t get harsh sun is usually ideal.
Q: What are “air plants” and can they go in a terrarium?
A: Air plants (Tillandsia) are plants that don’t need soil. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. While they can be used in open terrariums for display, they need to be removed for regular misting or soaking, and they need good air circulation.
Q: My terrarium plants are wilting. What could be wrong?
A: Wilting can be caused by too little or too much water. Check the soil moisture. If it’s bone dry, water more. If it’s waterlogged, you may need to improve drainage or air it out. Also, check the light conditions; too much direct sun can cause wilting.
Q: Can I mix different types of plants in one terrarium?
A: Yes, you can mix different plants, but make sure they have similar care requirements. Plants that need high humidity and low light are good companions. Avoid mixing plants with very different needs.
Q: How do I prevent mold in my terrarium?
A: Mold is often a sign of too much moisture and not enough air circulation. Ensure you have a drainage layer and activated charcoal. Avoid overwatering. If you see mold, remove the affected plant parts and air out the terrarium.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.