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HOW TO: Build a Terrarium

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I’m always looking for easy DIY projects to liven up our home. Terrariums are an easy way to add a little nature to any space and they require little upkeep for those of us that have a less than green thumb. Terrariums are easy to build too–here’s all you need:

  • Anything you want to build a terrarium in (I recommend anything glass because it lets you see all of the layers of your terrarium).
  • Cactus/Succulent soil ($6)
  • Small rocks, sand, or glass stones ($5-$10)
  • Sheet moss ($4-$8)
  • Small succulents ($2-$5)
  • Activated charcoal (only necessary if you wish to create a covered terrarium to avoid your terrarium from growing mold)

Start by filling your container with a layer of stones or sand. The thicker the layer, the more visible it is. This layer allows water to drain through so as to keep from over-watering your succulents. If you are using a covered container  here is where you would want to include a small layer of your activated charcoal.

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Now add a layer of your sheet moss like so.

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Now add a layer of your succulent soil. The thickness of this layer depends on how tall your container is and up to your personal preference.

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Now it’s time to add your succulents. Break up the roots a bit and nestle them into your layer of soil.

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Group them however you like. I like mixing different types and colors together to have a little variety.

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Now add another thin layer of your sheet moss to add a little texture and color. I added a few stones. Feel free to add stones, bark, wood, or anything else that speaks to your personality.

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If you’re like me, after you see how simple it is to create a terrarium you may go overboard and make one for every surface in your home.

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To keep them healthy and looking great, spritz them with water every so often. It’s better to underwater than overwater. Keep them near indirect light but out of too much direct sunlight as they can get burnt. Sit back and enjoy your work!

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For thoughts or feedback feel free to comment below or tweet me at @BrickNVine! Thanks!

4 Comments

  • Reply
    hello scarlett
    July 3, 2013 at 5:59 pm

    lovely post.

    i’ve been going plant crazy this summer, and just built my own terrarium using two of the same plants that you did!

    great minds think alike. 🙂

    here was my recent post on diy plant pots:

    http://helloscarlettblog.com/2013/06/20/lace-flower-pot-diy/

    ~ e ~

    • Reply
      Ryan
      July 3, 2013 at 10:30 pm

      I love plants that are hard to kill! Your lace pot post is such a creative idea! Thanks!

  • Reply
    clementinegoesusa
    July 3, 2013 at 6:50 pm

    Those are soo pretty!!

    • Reply
      Ryan
      July 3, 2013 at 10:28 pm

      Thanks! They are so easy–give them a try!

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