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Are you an avid gardener with a penchant for cultivating greenery but constrained by limited space? Perhaps you’re looking for effortlessly charming, space-efficient plants to grace your home or office.If the answer is yes, then you’re in for a treat! Exploring the botanical realm, we delve into the enchanting world of terrariums – miniature ecosystems encased in glass jars.
Join me as we uncover the secret to creating stunning, low-maintenance terrarium gardens and discover the best plants for terrariums, each a testament to nature’s beauty thriving within confined spaces.
Let’s embark on this journey of horticultural wonder, where the keyword is not just growth but the art of cultivating the “Best Plants for Terrariums.”
Best Plants for Terrariums
Do you love gardening? To grow plants but don’t have enough space? Or want to know about low-maintenance, space-efficient, but beautiful plants? If you have answered yes, this post is what you need. Below, I will introduce you to the best terrarium plants you can grow without much effort.
A terrarium is a fancy word for a tiny garden contained in a jar. Terrariums are fascinating for those living in tight places and for people who love to grow plants. They’re not only a great addition to your home but an office as well. They are beautiful, space-efficient, and require low maintenance.
One of the most appealing perks of having terrariums is they are easy to care for. You only need to develop a CAN-DO attitude and follow the instructions to turn a simple glass container into an aesthetic and fun-sized garden.
Before discussing the best plants for terrariums, knowing more about them and how they work would be great. So, let’s get started!
What Are Terrariums?
Terrariums are indoor mini-greenhouses. They are small, usually enclosed environments (bottles or jars) for plants. The containers (bottles or pots) used for terrarium gardens are generally transparent, like glass or plastic. They could be both open or sealed. The primary difference between sealed and open terrariums is that the former has a removable lid while the latter doesn’t.
Terrariums require deficient maintenance because they are capable of self-nourishing (especially sealed terrariums).
How Do Terrariums Work?
Since terrariums have two types (sealed and open), they work differently. Here is how closed terrariums work;
Sealed Terrariums
Closed terrariums are simple. Within a sealable, transparent container, they form an isolated ecosystem. The plants within the closed terrariums get everything they need to sustain themselves. They get nutrients from the soil, continuously recycled as plants grow.
Plants and the soil in sealed terrariums release water vapor, which condenses against the walls and then falls back into the soil – essentially creating water that is recycled and used again.
Open Terrariums
As the name suggests, terrariums are open to the outside environment. These terrariums enjoy a lot of air circulation. The humidity level is also less since the water cycle in open terrariums differs from that in sealed terrariums.
Open terrariums are great for plants that need less humidity and dry conditions. However, they can be placed both inside and outside the house.
So, what are the benefits of terrariums?
Advantages of Terrariums
Here are a few benefits of terrariums;
- You can quickly grow plants that otherwise would be difficult to grow in dry conditions.
- They are space-efficient and require less maintenance.
- In addition, they help to purify and humidify the air.
- They look aesthetically beautiful regardless of the setting.
- You can use them to unleash your creativity.
- They’re also good for health as they reduce stress and anxiety.
Now, it’s time to discuss the main topic – the best plants for terrariums.
10 Low-Maintenance & Best Plants for Terrariums
1. Friendship Plant
Friendship Plant is one of the best plants for terrariums that you can quickly grow. This cute little plant has distinct, deeply crinkled leaves and grows up to 12” high. Low-light situations are helpful for this plant, but it also needs some sunlight. If you care for the plant, you might witness its pale pink flowers. Friendship plants can be easily found in Central and South America on open tropical forest edges.
How to Care?
- Allow at least six hours of light daily, but protect it from direct sunlight.
- It happily nourishes in evenly moist soil.
- It needs ample humidity.
- Keep it a bit drier in cold temperatures.
2. Artillery Ferns
Refrain from being confused by their name, as they are not ferns but members of the Pilea family. The reason why they are known as ferns is their seeds, which make a popping sound. Despite their explosiveness, they have a lovely aesthetic and exciting texture. Artillery Ferns are incredibly easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them one of the best terrarium plants.
How to Care?
- They love moist but not-soaked soil.
- Water only when the soil is dry.
- Fertilize every few weeks to encourage their growth.
3. Variegated Spider Fern
The shiny, glossy leaves of Variegated Spider Fern look so appealing to the eyes. Its leaves, which have a yellow band down the center, distinguish it from other similar-looking plants. Growing is effortless, and one of the best plants for terrariums you can have in your home or office. It loves low light conditions and average humidity levels. The maximum height of this lovely plant is 16”.
How to Care?
- Water occasionally during its initial growth.
- Make sure the soil is moist during the summer and spring seasons.
- Fertilize twice a month, but avoid over-fertilization.
- It grows happily in low-light conditions.
4. Nerve Plant
It is another of the best terrarium plants that you can grow effortlessly. Its distinctive, lovely patterned leaves in burgundy and green make it a beautiful terrarium plant. The plant loves to nourish under warm, moist conditions. The height of the plant when fully matured is 12″. Besides terrariums, it is also a beautiful addition to your tabletops and hanging baskets.
How to Care?
- It likes moist but not excessively wet soil.
- Watering promotes its growth.
- It also likes warm areas.
5. Baby Tear Plant
You’ll fall in love with this adorable plant. It has cute rounded leaves, which look so soothing to the eyes. The plant stays happy in high humidity and bright conditions. Interestingly, this plant has multiple names, such as Mother of Thousands, Mind Your Own Business, Pollyanna Vine, Peace in the Home, etc. The maximum height of it is 5cm, while it can spread up to 90cm.
How to Care?
- It does like brightness but not direct sunlight.
- Also, it nourishes happily in moist soil.
- It doesn’t like soggy soil.
6. Golden Clubmoss
This short, heightened plant is terrifically appealing. With a height of just 6cm, it likes to spread. It means you must trim it to keep it inside the terrarium. The chartreuse leaves of the plant are carried on thin stems. It is also a great candidate for hanging baskets. It likes low light conditions and stays happy under average room temperatures. The cuteness of the plant also makes it one of the best terrarium plants.
How to Care?
- It loves humidity.
- It loves well-drained, moist soil.
- Apply liquid fertilizer once a month.
- Keep it protected from drafts.
7. Creeping Fig
Another lovely addition that you can add to your terrarium is Creeping Fig. Its tiny, heart-shaped leaves look great to the eyes. The plant can be found in abundance in warmer areas. However, it is also a great houseplant in colder regions. Its lush green growth makes it a lovely tabletop or hanging basket plant. Bright but indirect light promotes its growth.
How to Care?
- It likes bright conditions but not direct light.
- Moist but not excessively soil is excellent for its growth.
- Water them when the soil is dry.
8. Peperomia
Besides being the right plant for terrariums, it is also a great candidate for beginners who want to grow a low-caring, easy-to-grow houseplant. This slow-grower plant could be a lovely addition to your terrarium. You might witness its gorgeous flower spikes, providing an aesthetic color pop to your terrarium if you’re lucky enough.
How to Care?
- Before watering, allow the soil to dry as deep as five inches.
- Fertilize occasionally.
- Leach it in summer to eliminate the salt left behind.
9. Spiderwort
Spiderwort is a must-have one for plant enthusiasts. The plant’s aesthetically beautiful flowers are pleasing to the eyes while offering something unique to the landscape. It is another easy-to-grow and care-for plant you can add to your terrariums. Some even believed the plant is also used to treat spider bites (possibly because of its unusual name).
How to Care?
- It likes well-drained, moist soil.
- They do great in partial as well as sunny areas.
- Water them regularly.
10. Air Plant
Air plants are the most exciting plant on my list of best plants for a terrarium that you can grow. It doesn’t need soil to nourish since it gets water and nutrients through its unique leaves. However, they do love misting. It means this little beauty is an excellent plant for people considering growing a plant. These plants are also a lovely addition to the home or office.
How to Care?
- Soak the plant in water at room temperature once a week.
- They love to thrive in bright but indirect light conditions.
- Avoid over-watering them.
Botanical Brilliance: Cultivating Your Miniature Paradise with the Best Plants for Terrariums
And there you have it – a curated selection of the finest green companions for your terrarium adventures. These remarkable plants not only boast easygoing growth patterns but also demand minimal maintenance, making them a splendid addition to the ambiance of your home or office. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these botanical wonders contribute to indoor air purification, enhancing the quality of the air you breathe.
Please look no further if you’re thinking about the joy of nurturing a plant. These handpicked options are the epitome of the “Best Plants for Terrariums,” offering beauty and functionality for your green oasis. Choose one or a few, and let the magic of terrarium gardening transform your space into a thriving haven of natural splendor.
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FAQs
What plant should I grow in a sealed terrarium?
Ans: Some of the best and easiest-to-grow plants in a sealed terrarium include peperomia, nerve plants, golden pothos, miniature English ivy, and miniature ferns and mosaics.
What terrarium plants need less care?
Ans: Plenty of terrarium plants are easy to grow and need less maintenance. Some include Spiderwort, Air Plant, Friendship Plant, Peperomia, and Baby Tear Plant.
