Why Terrarium Plants Make Great Indoor Choices

Terrarium plants offer a unique blend of greenery, moisture-loving growth, and space-saving design. Because many are small, slow-growing and adapted to humid, stable environments, they’re ideal for enclosed or semi-enclosed containers. They bring a little piece of rainforest calm to indoor spaces - perfect for flats, desks, or rooms where you want humidity, greenery, and minimal footprint.

Closed terrariums form their own micro-environment: they recycle moisture, need less frequent watering, and create lush, evergreen displays. The right plants also add texture, variety, and long-lasting foliage without outgrowing the container quickly.

Terrarium Plant Care Guide

• Light:

Most terrarium-suitable plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct, harsh sunlight can overheat the glass container, so filtered light or a spot near a window but out of strong sun is ideal.

• Humidity & Environment:

Closed terrariums naturally hold humidity - this benefits mosses, ferns and other tropical, moisture-loving plants. Maintain a stable temperature; avoid placing terrariums near heaters or cold drafts.

• Soil & Potting Mix:

Use an airy, free-draining soil mix appropriate to terrarium or tropical plants. Many terrarium plants dislike heavy, water-retaining potting soils - choose a mix that supports humidity but drains excess water to prevent rot.

• Watering:

Because of the humid, self-contained environment, watering needs are low. Mist occasionally or water lightly when soil surface dries. Avoid overwatering which can lead to mould or root rot.

• Maintenance:

Prune as needed to control growth, especially for climbing or spreading species. Remove dead or decaying leaves promptly. Occasionally ventilate the terrarium - especially if condensation builds up - to keep air fresh and prevent mould.

Frequently Asked Questions - Terrarium Plants

What kinds of plants work best in a terrarium?

Small, slow-growing, humidity-loving plants tend to do best. Mosses, small ferns, compact tropical houseplants, and certain creepers or vines are ideal for closed terrariums. For open terrariums, you can also use hardy succulents or air plants (depending on the environment).

Do terrarium plants need sunlight?

Yes - bright, indirect light is best. Direct strong sun can cause overheating inside glass containers. Filtered light or diffused daylight helps plants thrive without stress.

How often should I water a terrarium?

Closed terrariums need very little watering because they create their own self-sustaining water cycle. In most cases, you'll only need to add a small amount of water when the soil looks dry and there's little or no condensation on the glass in the morning. Avoid watering on a schedule—it's always better to judge by the conditions inside your terrarium, as overwatering is the most common cause of problems.

Can I keep terrarium plants in a small flat or desk space?

Absolutely - one of the big perks of terrariums is that they’re compact, require little maintenance, and bring lush greenery into small spaces like flats, desks or small rooms.

Will terrarium plants grow too big and outgrow the container?

If you choose compact, slow-growing species and prune when needed, most terrarium plants stay manageable indefinitely. It’s important to match plant size to container size from the start.

Do I need special soil for terrariums?

Yes - a well-draining, airy soil that accommodates moisture without becoming waterlogged is ideal. Avoid heavy, dense soils, especially for moisture-loving plants that dislike root rot.

Can I use a closed terrarium all the time - does it need ventilation?

Occasionally yes. While closed terrariums can sustain humidity and recycle moisture, it’s good to open them briefly from time to time (especially if you see excessive condensation or mould) to allow fresh air in and maintain plant health.

Our Promise

Every terrarium-suitable plant from Between Two Thorns is selected for its suitability, health and longevity in enclosed or semi-enclosed environments. We pot and pack each plant carefully in our Brighton studio to ensure safe delivery across the UK. Whether you’re a terrarium beginner building your first indoor glass garden or an experienced plant lover expanding your collection - our terrarium plants bring vibrant, low-maintenance green magic into your home.