Air plant terrariums are a unique and beautiful way to bring a bit of nature into your home. These small, epiphytic plants grow without soil and are easy to care for, making them a great choice for those who do not have a lot of time or experience caring for plants. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create your own air plant terrarium, from choosing the right enclosure to selecting the appropriate substrate and decorations. We will also discuss the specific care needs of air plants and how to maintain your terrarium over time. By following these steps, you can create a thriving and visually appealing air plant terrarium that adds a touch of beauty to any space. So, let’s get started!
Are you tired of feeling like your home is a little too mundane and in need of some life and greenery? Do you love the idea of having plants in your home, but don’t have the green thumb to keep them alive? If so, then an air plant terrarium might be just what you need to bring some life and cheer to your space.
An air plant terrarium is a small ecosystem that is self-sustaining and easy to care for, making it the perfect option for those who may not have the time or expertise to care for traditional plants. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create your own air plant terrarium so you can enjoy the benefits of having plants in your home without the stress of keeping them alive.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
The first step in creating your air plant terrarium is to gather all of the materials you’ll need. Here is a list of everything you’ll need:
- Air plants: These are the main stars of the show, so make sure to choose a few that you love. Air plants are unique in that they don’t require soil to grow, and instead get their nutrients from the air around them. They are easy to care for and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can choose the ones that best fit your style.
- Terrarium container: Next, you’ll need a container to house your air plants. You can use a fish tank, a mason jar, or any other clear container that has a lid or can be sealed. This will create a closed environment for your plants, which will help them thrive.
- Sand or gravel: You’ll need a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom of your container to help with drainage. This will also add a decorative touch to your terrarium.
- Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal helps to purify the air in your terrarium and keep it fresh. You’ll need a small layer of activated charcoal on top of the sand or gravel.
- Moss: Moss adds a touch of greenery to your terrarium and helps to hold moisture in the soil. You can use any type of moss, but sphagnum moss is a popular choice.
- Decorative elements: Finally, you can add in any decorative elements you’d like, such as rocks, seashells, or small figurines, to personalize your terrarium.
Step 2: Assemble Your Terrarium
Now that you have all of your materials, it’s time to assemble your terrarium. Follow these steps to create your own oasis:
- Start by adding a layer of sand or gravel to the bottom of your container. This will help with drainage and add a decorative touch.
- Next, add a layer of activated charcoal on top of the sand or gravel. This will help to purify the air in your terrarium.
- Add a layer of moss on top of the activated charcoal. This will help to hold moisture in the soil and add some greenery to your terrarium.
- Now it’s time to add in your air plants. Choose a spot in your terrarium where you’d like your plants to go and gently press them into the moss.
- Finally, add any decorative elements you’d like to personalize your terrarium. This could include rocks, seashells, or small figurines.
Step 3: Care for Your Air Plant Terrarium
Now that you’ve created your air plant terrarium, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure that your plants thrive.
Now that your air plant terrarium is set up, it’s important to know how to care for your plants. Here are a few tips to keep your terrarium thriving:
- Water your plants regularly. Air plants require regular watering, but be careful not to over-water them. A good rule of thumb is to mist them once or twice a week, or soak them in water for about 20 minutes once a week. Make sure to drain the excess water from the container after watering.
- Provide proper lighting. Air plants prefer bright, indirect light, so a south-facing window is usually a good spot for them. If you don’t have a south-facing window, you can also use a grow light to provide the necessary lighting. Just make sure to keep the plants out of direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves.
- Fertilize occasionally. While air plants don’t require frequent fertilization, a light feeding once a month can help to boost their growth. You can use a liquid fertilize specifically formulated for air plants, or you can use a diluted solution of regular houseplant fertilize.
- Rotate your plants. To prevent your air plants from leaning towards the light, it’s a good idea to rotate them occasionally. This will help them to grow evenly and maintain a healthy shape.
By following these simple care instructions, your air plant terrarium should thrive and provide you with a unique and low-maintenance oasis in your home. Not only are they a beautiful addition to any room, they’re also a great conversation starter
