Building a terrarium is a creative and fulfilling way to bring nature indoors, but one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the process is choosing the right container. The container you select not only affects the aesthetic of your terrarium but also plays a vital role in the health and longevity of the plants inside. Whether you're creating a lush tropical rainforest, a minimalistic succulent garden, or a whimsical woodland scene, the container will set the foundation for your miniature ecosystem.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the different types of containers available for terrariums and help you choose the one that best suits your project. From glass jars to open-top vessels, we’ll break down the pros and cons of various options to help you create the perfect home for your plants.

1. Glass Containers: The Classic Terrarium Choice

Glass is by far the most popular material for terrariums, and for good reason. It’s clear, allowing for full visibility of your plants and décor, and it can hold moisture well, which is essential for keeping a healthy environment inside. Here are some common glass containers you might want to consider:

a. Closed Glass Containers

A closed glass container, such as a glass jar, cloche, or aquarium, is perfect for creating a self-sustaining terrarium. The enclosed space helps retain moisture and humidity, making it ideal for tropical plants that thrive in high-humidity environments, such as ferns, mosses, and orchids.

Pros:

  • Retains moisture and humidity, reducing the need for frequent watering.

  • Creates a mini greenhouse effect, perfect for certain plant species.

  • Creates a visually stunning, almost magical effect with the plants thriving inside a “sealed world.”

Cons:

  • Requires careful monitoring to ensure plants don’t become over-watered or moldy.

  • Less air circulation, which can be detrimental to some plants, like succulents, that need good airflow.

b. Open Glass Containers

Open containers, such as glass bowls, vases, or cylindrical jars, are ideal for plants that prefer drier conditions, such as succulents, cacti, or air plants. Open containers allow for better air circulation, preventing mold build-up and ensuring that water evaporates more quickly.

Pros:

  • Better air circulation for plants that don’t require high humidity.

  • Easier to maintain and care for.

  • Great for creating a minimalist look with low-maintenance plants.

Cons:

  • More frequent watering is needed, as there’s no humidity to trap moisture inside.

  • May not be suitable for plants that need constant humidity, such as tropical species.

2. Alternative Terrarium Containers: Thinking Outside the Glass Box

While glass is the most common material for terrariums, there are plenty of alternative containers that can make your project unique, functional, and eco-friendly.

a. Bamboo and Ceramic Containers

Bamboo and ceramic containers offer a more sustainable option for terrariums. Bamboo can be used to create beautiful, lightweight, and natural-looking containers, while ceramic pots are perfect for a rustic or modern aesthetic.

Pros:

  • Bamboo is renewable and eco-friendly.

  • Ceramic containers can provide a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for more customization.

Cons:

  • Ceramic pots are generally heavier and more difficult to move around.

  • Bamboo containers may require extra care to keep them free from rot or mold if not sealed properly.

b. Repurposed and Upcycled Containers

Upcycling old items can be a sustainable and creative way to build a terrarium. Consider repurposing old fish tanks, wine bottles, light bulbs, or even antique glassware as your container. These items not only give a second life to something that might otherwise be thrown away, but they also add a unique, personalized touch to your project.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly and cost-effective.

  • Adds a unique, personalized element to your terrarium.

  • Allows for creative, one-of-a-kind designs.

Cons:

  • May require some DIY work to clean, repurpose, or adapt the container for plant use.

  • Certain containers, like wine bottles, may need to be altered for proper ventilation or drainage.

c. Plastic or Acrylic Containers

Plastic and acrylic containers are lightweight and durable, making them a great alternative to glass. These materials also tend to be more affordable. However, while they provide a good environment for certain plants, they don’t have the same aesthetic appeal or transparency as glass.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and durable.

  • Affordable and easy to find in a variety of shapes and sizes.

  • Can be used for outdoor terrariums that might otherwise break easily with glass.

Cons:

  • Less visually appealing compared to glass.

  • Can become cloudy or scratched over time, reducing visibility.

  • May not retain moisture as well as glass containers.

3. Size and Shape: Consider the Space and Your Plant's Needs

When choosing a container, consider both the size and shape, as these factors will affect the overall look of your terrarium and the health of your plants. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

a. Size of the Container

Choose a container size that allows enough space for your plants to grow. While a smaller container is suitable for a few plants or succulents, larger containers can house multiple plant species, creating a more complex ecosystem. Be sure not to overcrowd the container, as this can hinder plant growth and lead to poor air circulation.

Tip: A larger container offers more flexibility, allowing for more plant species and a better balance of light and humidity. However, smaller containers are easier to maintain and move around.

b. Shape of the Container

The shape of your container plays a significant role in the design of your terrarium. Tall, cylindrical containers or hexagonal jars create an elegant, vertical look, while shallow bowls or square containers can give a more modern, minimalist feel.

Tip: The shape also impacts how you layer the plants and substrate inside. A tall container, for example, will need taller plants to fill the space, while a short, wide container is perfect for spreading out low-growing plants or ground cover.

4. Ventilation and Drainage: Key to Plant Health

No matter the container you choose, ventilation and drainage are critical to maintaining a healthy terrarium. Poor airflow and drainage can lead to excess moisture, mold, or rotting plants. Here are some tips:

a. Ventilation

If you choose a closed container, be sure it has an opening or lid that can be removed occasionally to provide air circulation. Without sufficient ventilation, the humidity inside may become too high, creating an environment for mold to grow.

b. Drainage

Most containers will require a drainage layer to help prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot. If your container doesn’t have built-in drainage, you can create your own by adding a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom. This helps excess water flow away from the roots of your plants.

Conclusion

Choosing the right container for your terrarium project is a critical first step in creating a thriving, beautiful mini ecosystem. Glass containers are the most popular choice, but alternative materials like bamboo, ceramic, and repurposed items can add a unique, sustainable touch to your design. Be sure to consider the size, shape, and ventilation needs of the container, as well as the specific needs of your plants. Whether you're creating a closed tropical rainforest or an open succulent garden, the right container sets the stage for a thriving, beautiful terrarium that will bring nature indoors in the most delightful way.