How to Make a Water Plant Terrarium

Creating a water plant terrarium is a fun and simple way to bring a touch of nature indoors. Terrariums are self-contained ecosystems that require little maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your very own water plant terrarium:

What You’ll Need

To make a water plant terrarium, you’ll need the following materials:

A clear glass container with a lid

Aquarium gravel

Activated carbon

Peat moss or coconut coir

Water plants

Distilled water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Container

Choose a clear glass container with a lid. The container can be any shape, but a wide opening is ideal to make it easier to plant your water plants. Wash the container thoroughly with soap and water and let it dry.

Step 2: Add the Gravel

Add a layer of aquarium gravel to the bottom of the container. The gravel will provide drainage and prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. Use enough gravel to cover the bottom of the container to a depth of about 1-2 inches.

Step 3: Add the Activated Carbon

Add a layer of activated carbon on top of the gravel. The activated carbon will help to filter the water in the terrarium and keep it clean. Use enough activated carbon to cover the gravel to a depth of about 1/4 inch.

Step 4: Add the Peat Moss or Coconut Coir

Add a layer of peat moss or coconut coir on top of the activated carbon. The peat moss or coconut coir will hold moisture and provide a growing medium for your water plants. Use enough peat moss or coconut coir to cover the activated carbon to a depth of about 1-2 inches.

Step 5: Add the Water Plants

Now it’s time to add your water plants. Choose plants that are suited to the conditions in your terrarium. Some good options include Java moss, Java fern, and Anubias. Gently remove the plants from their pots and carefully wash the soil from their roots. Arrange the plants in the terrarium, making sure they have enough space to grow.

Step 6: Add Distilled Water

Add distilled water to the terrarium until the soil is moist but not completely saturated. Use a spray bottle to mist the plants and the inside of the container.

Step 7: Seal the Terrarium

Seal the terrarium with the lid and place it in a bright area that receives indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the terrarium in direct sunlight, as this can cause the temperature inside the container to rise and harm the plants. Your water plant terrarium is now complete!

Maintenance Tips

To keep your water plant terrarium thriving, follow these maintenance tips:

Water the plants when the soil becomes dry to the touch

Do not overwater the terrarium, as this can cause mold and root rot

Remove any dead or dying leaves or plants to prevent mold and bacteria growth

Keep the terrarium out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat or drafts

If condensation builds up inside the container, remove the lid for a few hours to allow excess moisture to evaporate

With a little care and attention, your water plant terrarium will provide a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your home or office. Have fun experimenting with different water plant species and container designs!