Maintaining a terrarium involves several key tasks to ensure a healthy and thriving mini-ecosystem. Here’s a comprehensive guide to terrarium maintenance:

1. Watering

• Closed Terrariums: These require minimal watering because they recycle moisture. Check for condensation on the glass; if it’s excessive, open the lid for a while to let some moisture escape. If there’s no condensation, lightly mist the plants.
• Open Terrariums: These need more frequent watering. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top layer of soil feels dry. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

2. Lighting

• Place the terrarium in a location with appropriate light. Most terrariums thrive in indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can overheat the plants, while too little light can cause them to become leggy.
• If natural light is insufficient, consider using a grow light to supplement.

3. Pruning and Trimming

• Regularly prune overgrown plants to keep them manageable and to prevent overcrowding.
• Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.

4. Cleaning

• Wipe the inside of the glass to remove condensation, dirt, or algae build-up.
• Remove any debris or fallen leaves from the soil surface to prevent mould and pests.

5. Fertilising

• Terrariums typically need little to no fertilisation. If you do decide to fertilise, use a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser sparingly, usually no more than once or twice a year.

6. Pest Control

• Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, or fungus gnats.
• If pests are detected, remove the affected plants and treat the terrarium with appropriate natural or chemical pest control methods.

7. Humidity and Ventilation

• For closed terrariums, occasionally open the lid to let in fresh air and prevent mould growth.
• Monitor the humidity levels and adjust as needed, especially in closed terrariums. A hygrometer can be helpful for this.

8. Soil Health

• Over time, soil can become compacted. If this happens, gently aerate the soil with a small tool.
• Replace the soil if it becomes depleted or if you notice significant problems with plant health.

9. Monitoring and Adjusting

• Regularly observe the overall health of the plants and the condition of the terrarium environment. Adjust care routines based on the specific needs of the plants.

By following these maintenance guidelines, you can ensure your terrarium remains a beautiful and thriving mini-ecosystem. Regular attention and care will help prevent common issues and keep your plants healthy.