Terrariums are like tiny, enchanted gardens you can keep on your desk, shelf, or windowsill. They bring nature indoors, require minimal maintenance, and are perfect for small spaces. Even better—they can be built using repurposed glass jars you already have at home.
In this expanded guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a beautiful, long-lasting terrarium using low-cost or free materials. You don’t need to be an artist or a gardener—just a little curiosity, creativity, and one clean glass jar.
What Is a Terrarium?
A terrarium is a miniature ecosystem enclosed in a glass container. Some are sealed, creating a self-sustaining environment where moisture recycles. Others are open, better for plants that need airflow.
They’re great for:
- Urban apartments
- Desks and office spaces
- Kids learning about plants
- Gifts that feel thoughtful and handmade
- Relaxing, meditative decor
Terrariums are low-maintenance, space-saving, and endlessly customizable.
Why Make One with a Recycled Jar?
Buying new glass containers or kits can cost $20 or more. But chances are, you already have everything you need:
- Empty jam or pickle jars
- Pasta sauce bottles
- Mason jars
- Candle holders
- Old fishbowls or vases
Repurposing jars:
- Reduces waste
- Saves money
- Adds charm (each jar tells a story)
You’ll also be using materials you might normally throw away—like stones, scraps of moss, or leftover soil.
What You’ll Need (Basic Materials)
Here’s a simple checklist to build a great-looking terrarium from a reused jar.
For the container:
- 1 clean glass jar with or without a lid
- Remove labels and glue (soaking in warm water helps)
For the layers:
- Small pebbles or gravel – for drainage
- Activated charcoal – keeps the soil fresh (optional but recommended)
- Potting soil – suited to your plant choice
- Plants – small, slow-growing varieties
- Decorative elements – moss, stones, twigs, figurines (optional)
Optional tools:
- Tweezers or chopsticks (for precise placement)
- Spoon (for soil)
- Spray bottle (for misting)
Step-by-Step: How to Build a Terrarium in a Jar
Step 1: Clean and Prep Your Jar
Wash the glass thoroughly and dry it. A clear, streak-free surface will help light pass through and allow you to see your little ecosystem clearly.
Step 2: Add a Drainage Layer
Pour in a 2–3 cm layer of small rocks or pebbles. This helps prevent root rot by allowing excess water to settle away from the soil.
Tip: Aquarium gravel or even crushed ceramic bits work great.
Step 3: Sprinkle Activated Charcoal
Add a thin layer of activated charcoal to keep odors and mold at bay, especially in closed terrariums.
You can find this in pet stores (aquarium section) or garden centers.
Step 4: Add Potting Soil
Add 4–6 cm of soil, depending on the depth of your jar and the root size of your chosen plants.
Choose the right soil:
- Succulents/cacti: fast-draining mix with sand or perlite
- Tropical plants: rich, moisture-retaining mix
Pat down lightly so the soil is level and compact enough to support the plants.
Step 5: Add Your Plants
Using a spoon or tweezers, make small holes in the soil and gently insert each plant.
Great terrarium plants include:
- Fittonia (nerve plant)
- Mini ferns
- Pilea
- Baby’s tears
- Mosses
- Succulents or air plants (for open terrariums)
Avoid fast growers or anything that gets too tall.
Tip: Trim roots if needed and remove extra soil to fit the plants neatly.
Step 6: Decorate and Personalize
Now comes the fun part—add tiny rocks, moss, bark, shells, or miniature figurines to make your terrarium truly unique.
Create themes: forest, desert, zen garden, fairy tale… whatever suits your vibe.
Step 7: Water and Place
Lightly mist the plants and soil. For closed terrariums, use less water—a sealed jar recycles moisture through condensation.
Place your terrarium near indirect light—not direct sun, which can overheat the jar.
Caring for Your Jar Terrarium
Terrariums are generally low-maintenance but still need occasional attention.
Watering:
- Closed terrariums: Mist sparingly once every 2–4 weeks
- Open terrariums: Water lightly once a week
- Use a spray bottle or spoon to avoid overwatering
Look for condensation—a little is good, too much means you should air it out.
Trimming:
- Prune dead leaves or overgrowth
- Remove moldy material immediately
Cleaning:
- Wipe the inside of the glass if it gets foggy
- Air out a closed terrarium if it stays too damp
Budget Tips: Keep It Cheap and Eco-Friendly
- Collect pebbles from outside (rinse well)
- Use potting soil from another plant project
- Ask neighbors or friends for plant cuttings
- Repurpose lids into mini drainage trays
- Use old toy figures or recycled metal as decor
You don’t need to spend more than a couple of dollars—if anything—to make a beautiful, functional terrarium.
Project Ideas for Different Styles
Minimalist:
- One small plant, white stones, and a clean jar
- Great for modern workspaces
Lush Jungle:
- Multiple mosses and ferns with bark and rich soil
- Closed jar for humidity retention
Desert Scene:
- Cactus or succulent, sand, and stone
- Open jar, placed in bright light
Fantasy Theme:
- Add a tiny fairy, dragon, or castle
- Mix moss with crystals and twigs
Kid-Friendly:
- Add plastic animals, name tags, or stickers
- Let them spray it and track the growth
FAQs: DIY Terrariums
Can I use any jar?
Yes! Just make sure it’s clean and clear. Short, wide jars are easier to work with, but tall ones are great for drama.
What if my plants start dying?
Check for too much moisture, lack of light, or poor drainage. Remove affected plants and let the jar air out before replanting.
Can I use fake plants?
Of course! You won’t need soil or water—just stones and decor. It’s a stylish, no-maintenance option.
Do terrariums attract bugs?
Rarely. As long as you use clean materials and avoid overwatering, bugs shouldn’t be a problem indoors.
Can I put a terrarium outside?
Not recommended unless it’s in a sheltered, shaded area. Most terrariums are sensitive to temperature swings and harsh sun.
Final Thoughts: Tiny Worlds, Big Joy
Creating a DIY terrarium is one of the most satisfying garden projects you can do—especially with repurposed materials. It’s creative, eco-friendly, and deeply rewarding.
You get to watch your mini world evolve over time, with just a little care. And the best part? It’s your design, your plants, and your story—sealed in glass.
Start with one jar. Then another. Before you know it, you’ll have an indoor jungle in miniature, built with love and leftovers.