What Plants Should Not Be Used in a Terrarium
Creating a thriving terrarium involves selecting plants that can coexist harmoniously within such a confined environment. While many plants are well-suited for terrariums, there are certain types that can cause problems. As your trusted glass terrarium specialist, we’re here to go through which plants should not be used in a terrarium, allowing you to make the right purchases for such a truly unique type of ecosystem.
Why Some Plants Are Unsuitable for Terrariums
Some plants are not suited to a glass terrarium because of these factors:
• Size and Growth Rate: Plants that grow too large or too quickly can outcompete others for space and resources, leading to overcrowding and imbalance.
• Moisture Requirements: Plants with high water needs may not thrive in the typically humid but controlled environment of a terrarium.
• Light Requirements: Some plants require more light than a terrarium can provide, leading to poor growth or even death.
• Invasive Growth: Plants that spread aggressively can dominate the terrarium, crowding out other species.
Plants to Avoid in a Terrarium
Cacti and Succulents
Cacti and most succulents are generally not suitable for closed terrariums due to their low humidity and high light requirements. The humid environment of a closed terrarium can cause these plants to develop root rot and fungal diseases. These plants also require more light than typically provided in a terrarium setting.
Large Ferns
While some ferns do well in terrariums, large ferns like Boston Ferns can quickly outgrow the space and require more care to keep them manageable. Rapid growth and large size can overwhelm the terrarium, leading to overcrowding and insufficient space for other plants.
Bamboo
Bamboo, particularly the larger species, is not suitable for terrariums due to its rapid growth and extensive root system. Bamboo grows very quickly and can become too large for the confined space, outcompeting other plants for nutrients and light.
Tropical Trees
Small trees and shrubs, such as bonsai or other tropical varieties, often require more space, light, and specific care that is difficult to provide in a terrarium. Their roots can also become extensive, leading to a crowded and imbalanced environment.
Carnivorous Plants
Carnivorous plants like Venus Flytraps and Pitcher Plants have very specific humidity, light, and soil requirements that are difficult to maintain in a typical terrarium. They require a specific environment with high humidity, consistent moisture, and direct sunlight, which is challenging to replicate in a terrarium.
Tips for Choosing the Right Plants
When selecting plants for your terrarium, consider the following tips to ensure a balanced and thriving ecosystem:
Choose Small, Slow-Growing Plants
Opt for plants that remain compact and grow slowly, such as Fittonia (Nerve Plant), Peperomia, and small ferns like the Maidenhair Fern.
Match Plants to Terrarium Type
Ensure the plants you choose are suited to the specific conditions of your terrarium, whether it is open or closed.
Consider Light Requirements
Select plants with similar light needs to ensure they all receive adequate lighting without competing.
Check Humidity Preferences
Choose plants that thrive in the humidity level of your terrarium. For closed terrariums, high-humidity-loving plants like mosses and tropical plants are ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best plants for a closed terrarium include those that thrive in high humidity and low to moderate light, such as mosses, ferns, Fittonia, and Pilea. These plants are well-suited to the humid environment of a closed terrarium.
Choose slow-growing plants and regularly prune them to manage their size. Keep an eye on the growth and remove any plants that start to dominate the space.
Outdoor plants are typically not suited for terrariums due to their size and specific environmental needs. It’s best to choose plants that are known to thrive in indoor, controlled environments like terrariums.
Find Out More Today
To find out more about finding the perfect glass terrarium and which plants to stock it with, get in touch with our team today. We can’t wait to hear from you!
