Creating your own terrarium is a rewarding and relaxing project. In this build guide we’ll cover all the steps to build your very own terrarium. For more detailed information head to our Articles page.

Build Guide

Prepare: Wash your terrarium glassware with warm soapy water, rinse well, and dry.

Drainage: Add 1-2cm of rinsed stones or hydro clay pebbles (LECA). This layer collects excess water and prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged.

Separate: Place around 1cm of damp sphagnum moss over the drainage layer. This keeps your substrate in place and stops it from sinking down.

Filter: Add a thin layer of charcoal. This helps filter water and reduce mould.

Substrate: Add 3-4 cm of moist, well-draining terrarium mix. Avoid adding too much, so your plants have space to grow! Eko Lab blends contain everything your plants need to thrive and are safe for bio-active organisms. You may have some mix left over. 

Plant: Remove excess soil from your plants (if they came in a pot) and place them in your terrarium. Gently backfill with more substrate as needed. Group them in the centre for a lush, jungle look, or space them out to let them spread.

Decorate: Style with stones, sand, moss, or anything else you like! This is your chance to get creative – you don’t have to use every supplied item.

Water: Give your terrarium a light water, ideally with a spray bottle, using distilled water or tap water left to sit for 24hrs. The drainage layer should be free from excess water. 

Congratulations! A closed terrarium needs very little care once established – check out our Care Guide. 

🔗 More care guides: Care Instructions

💡 New to terrariums? Read our Beginner’s Guide to Terrariums

✉️ Need help? Contact Us and we’ll be happy to provide specific advice!