Selecting the right container is crucial for creating a successful terrarium. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a container:
Types of Containers
- Glass Containers
Advantages: Transparent, retains humidity, aesthetically pleasing.
Disadvantages: Can be heavy, prone to breakage.
Examples: Aquariums, mason jars, glass bowls, apothecary jars, glass domes.
- Acrylic Containers
Advantages: Lighter than glass, less prone to breakage, good clarity.
Disadvantages: Can scratch easily, may discolor over time.
Examples: Acrylic display cases, clear plastic bins.
- Repurposed Containers
Advantages: Creative and unique, often cost-effective.
Disadvantages: May need modification (e.g., drilling holes for ventilation).
Examples: Recycled bottles, cookie jars, light bulbs, fish bowls.
Factors to Consider
- Size
Small Containers: Suitable for mini terrariums or single small plants.
Medium Containers: Ideal for a few small plants or one medium-sized plant.
Large Containers: Accommodate multiple plants, create complex ecosystems.
- Shape
Round Containers: Provide a 360-degree view, often used for open terrariums.
Rectangular/Square Containers: Offer more planting area, good for creating layers and landscapes.
Unique Shapes: Can be visually interesting but may be challenging to work with.
- Opening
Open Top: Suitable for succulents, cacti, and other plants that prefer lower humidity.
Closed Top: Ideal for tropical plants, ferns, mosses, and high-humidity environments.
Lid Options: Removable lids allow for easy access for maintenance and adjustment of humidity levels.
- Accessibility
Wide Mouth: Easier to plant and maintain, allows better air circulation.
Narrow Mouth: May be challenging to work with, often used for specific aesthetic purposes.
Choosing Based on Plant Type
- Succulents and Cacti
Container Type: Open containers with good airflow to prevent excess moisture.
Examples: Shallow dishes, bowls, or wide-mouth jars.
- Tropical Plants and Ferns
Container Type: Closed or partially closed containers to maintain high humidity.
Examples: Glass domes, apothecary jars, closed aquariums.
- Mosses and Air Plants
Container Type: Closed or open containers, depending on moisture needs.
Examples: Glass orbs, terrarium bowls, cloches.
Practical Considerations
- Stability
Ensure the container is stable and won’t tip over easily, especially if it’s top-heavy.
- Drainage
If the container doesn’t have drainage holes, create a thick drainage layer with gravel or stones to prevent root rot.
- Visibility
Choose a clear container for maximum visibility to appreciate the plants and design.
Examples of Suitable Containers
- Aquariums: Ideal for large, intricate terrariums.
- Mason Jars: Great for small, simple terrariums, easy to find.
- Apothecary Jars: Stylish, excellent for closed terrariums with high humidity.
- Glass Bowls: Versatile, good for both open and closed terrariums.
- Hanging Terrariums: Perfect for air plants and small displays.
- Recycled Glass Bottles: Eco-friendly, unique shapes and sizes.
Summary
- Size and Shape: Choose based on the number and type of plants you plan to include.
- Opening Type: Open for low humidity plants,
- Closed for high humidity plants but harder to fill and manoeuvre objects inside
- Material: Glass for clarity and aesthetics, acrylic for lightweight and durability.
- Practical Considerations: Stability, drainage, and visibility are key.
By selecting the appropriate container, you can create a beautiful, thriving terrarium that suits both your aesthetic preferences and the needs of your plants.