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- Wednesday Works: How to Make a Terrarium
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Terrariums are like bottled magic—lush little ecosystems tucked into glass, bringing the outdoors in without the muddy boots.
They’re low-maintenance, aesthetically soothing, and perfect for adding a touch of nature to your desk, shelf, or windowsill. If you've been wanting a miniature jungle without the overwhelm, you're in the right place.
On this fine Wednesday, we’re stepping glass-first into one of the most enchanting, accessible, and downright delightful DIY projects in the plant world: building your own terrarium. If you’ve never layered pebbles and moss into a vessel and watched a tiny world come to life, you’re in for a miniature marvel.
Let’s be honest—there’s something quietly powerful about creating a living landscape you can hold in your hands. It’s a reminder that beauty doesn’t need to be big to be bold. It’s ecosystem meets art project. It’s nature’s way of whispering you’ve got this. And the best part? It’s low-maintenance magic that asks for little and gives back a lot.
So, light a candle, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s build a world in a jar.
Let’s get into it.
What Is a Terrarium, Anyway?Think of a terrarium as a living diorama—a self-contained slice of nature tucked inside glass. It’s part science, part art, and entirely therapeutic. At its core, a terrarium is a mini ecosystem you design, build, and care for—no backyard required. Today’s tiny garden stars might include:
Each plant brings its own charm, but together? They create a world that feels both wild and serene. Why glass, you ask? Let’s dig into that next. Community Sharing: Soon, friends were asking for their own miniature worlds. Jordan started gifting them—each one thoughtfully crafted with bits of moss, stone, and love. Now, their home is filled with tiny glass gardens in all shapes and sizes, waiting for birthdays, thank-yous, and just-because moments. “Every terrarium I give feels like offering someone a little peace in a jar,” Jordan told us. “It’s a quiet reminder that something small can still feel sacred.” Turns out, terrariums don’t just grow plants. They grow presence. They grow connection. And sometimes, they grow community—one glass garden at a time. -Jordan S -Seattle, WA | Each plant brings its own charm, but together? They create a world that feels both wild and serene. Why Glass?Soil is essential. Soil is sacred. Soil grows empires of green. But when you’re building a terrarium, glass is where the magic happens. Here's why: 1. VisibilityThere’s something spellbinding about watching layers of earth, stone, and greenery stack into harmony. Glass turns your creation into living décor—a botanical scene on display from every angle. It’s your private greenhouse and a work of art. 2. SimplicityWith a clear container, it’s easy to monitor moisture, spot mold before it misbehaves, and keep an eye on your plants without disturbing their roots. No guesswork, no surprises—just transparency (literally and metaphorically). 3. Success RateGlass creates a microclimate. In closed terrariums, it traps humidity—perfect for ferns and mosses. In open ones, it offers airflow while still sheltering your green scene from harsh drafts. It’s nature under a dome, with its own gentle weather system. Glass isn’t just the vessel—it’s part of the experience. And it’s what transforms a handful of plants into a little world all your own.  |
What You'll Need
Before we layer and plant, let’s gather the essentials:
A clear glass container - (jar, vase, fishbowl, or repurposed candle holder)
Small pebbles or gravel - (for drainage)
Create layered patterns or designs with colored sand or fine gravel—especially striking in geometric or cylindrical containers.
Activated charcoal - (keeps things fresh)
Potting soil - (choose based on your plants)
Small Plants - (think ferns, moss, succulents, or air plants)
Try pinecones, seed pods, bark, or driftwood for a more rustic, forest-floor look. These can add texture and contrast.
Beyond live moss, preserved moss or lichen can add structure, variety, and color contrast—no care required.
Decorative Elements - (optional but fun—tiny figurines, crystals, or shells)
Stones or Crystals add a touch of sparkle or color with polished stones, quartz points, or tiny geodes. They can create focal points or enhance the aesthetic.
Mini Figurines - Fairy garden vibes, anyone? Think tiny animals, gnomes, mushrooms, or even miniature furniture to give your terrarium a whimsical, storybook feel.
Optional extras:
LED Fairy Lights - Especially for open terrariums, a strand of battery-operated fairy lights can transform your mini garden into a glowing nightscape.
Mini Signs or Labels - Tiny hand-lettered signs or plant name tags give a personal, playful touch—and help if you're gifting your creation.
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