Terrariums Info

Terrariums - What are They?

Terrariums are micro ecosystems contained within a vessel, normally maintained for their aesthetics and beauty. Terrariums have been common place in the UK since the 1800's being referred to back then as wardian cases. In recent years the terrarium hobby has grown in popularity, with their ease of care and the sheer variety of different glass containers on the market its easy to see why. 

There are so many options to choose from when creating a terrarium from the plants and animals you want to keep to shape and size you want to build, be it an old drinks bottle, demi john, bowl, vase or repurposed aquarium, When it comes to terrariums your only limit is your imagination!



The term Terrarium Generally refers to a sealed or lidded, clear glass or plastic container that contains plants and soil.
The Clear sides of the terrarium allow both heat and light to pass through, two very important factors for plant growth. 

When heat enters the terrarium it warms up the atmosphere, causing water in the plants and soil to evaporate, this vapour then rises and condenses on the sides of the terrarium as it cools. As the water condenses it drips back down into the terrarium watering the soil, essentially creating a complete miniature water cycle within the terrarium.

The Soil in the terrarium plays host to bacteria and other organisms (see Custodians) that break down dead and decaying plant matter, proving nutrients to the plants and carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. The Plants then combine this Co2 with light to photosynthesize, grow and produce oxygen, Creating its own unique atmosphere. 

There are several kinds of Terrarium, suited to diffrent plants and animals, find out more below.

 
Terrarium Store

The Closed/Sealed Terrarium
 
The closed Terrarium is as it says on the tin, it a closed container with a tight fitting lid or seal like a bottle or a jar.
 
Due to the high humidity of the closed terrarium its far better suited to tropical plants such as mosses, orchids, ferns and airplants.

Closed terrariums require very little watering, the absence of condensation on the sides is a good indicator of when the terrarium should be watered.

Closed terrariums should also be opened every few weeks to allow fresh air to circulate and to prevent mould.  


The Open Terrarium

open terrariums are exactly that, container with an open top like a vase or a bowl.

Open Terrariums are well suited to more arid plants or plants that don't require as much humidity such as succulents and cacti.
However open terrariums can be used to grow any type of plant as long as one remembers to water the higher humidity loving plants more regularly. 

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