If you are planning on keeping plants in your terrarium, one important thing to know is that they need a source of water for survival. But how much do you really need to provide? The amount of water your terrarium plants will require will be based on the type and size of the plants, the size of your terrarium, and the amount of sunlight your terrarium receives. You can find the answers to these questions in the next few paragraphs.
Most plants that we keep in our homes, such as most succulents, belong to the class of vascular plants. This means that they grow best when they receive regular water that is not excessively abundant. Most of them don’t actually compete with their neighbors for the same water. So it is more of a constant supply rather than a competition for resources.
But some plants will thrive in an abundant water source and others won’t. There are several factors you should consider when deciding if your terrarium plants will grow well and thrive. One of these factors is humidity. This refers to the amount of water or moisture that is contained within the soil of the plant. You should take into consideration both the frequency and the amount of watering that you give your plant.
For example, some plants, such as the tiny pebbles found in the corners of containers and rocks, are ideal candidates for containers. If the roots of the plant are placed into this fine, porous soil, it will develop into a root system of its own and establish a thick layer of moss on the underside of the small pebbles. This root system will provide the plant with plenty of moisture without having to continually transfer water from the main trunk of the plant. The moss will also provide a place for the roots to develop and stay safe from insects and other animals.
On the flip side, some plants, like the evergreen moss that lines rock walls and patios, prefer a more controlled environment and will do well in the sunlight. In this case, you’ll want to make sure your terrarium has a window that can let in enough sunlight to keep the plants healthy. It’s also a good idea to put the plant on a slanting surface, so that it gets indirect sunlight and will not get overheated or burned. If your terrarium is placed on a slope, you might need to add rocks or plastic to make sure the plants don’t slip off. Some terrarium experts even suggest building a raised pen for the birds, which keeps them away from the water.
But some terrariums are simply too big or heavy for most containers, and cannot be supported by anything less than a sturdy lid. In this case, you’ll have to choose a suitable container or have someone help you choose one. Most gardeners prefer a glass terrarium because they are easy to maintain and keep clean. You’ll need to water your terrarium at least once a week, unless it is in the shade, and mist the soil every day. If you’re putting fish into your terrarium, you will also need to water them at least once a day or more.
If you have any questions about what kind of container to use or what would constitute a good terrarium lid, ask your local garden center, pet store or supply store. The professionals there will usually have plenty of experience and can point you in the right direction. If you decide to get a decorative lid, be sure to look around online for ideas. There are a lot of terrarium-themed paintings and prints available if you don’t already have one. Lids can be made of many different kinds of materials, including terrarium-themed ones.
One thing that does a terrarium need a lid is the ability to provide the correct environment for your plants and fish. Both plants and fish need light, so be sure to get the proper container for them. If you’re growing plants from seeds, be aware that they will need some sunlight during the colder months. Be careful with open terrariums though, because any excess light can potentially burn your plants. Most people choose glass or plastic containers for their indoor or redo plants because they are durable and attractive.