Embedded Files
Water
Water
The great thing about terrariums is that they are low maintenance. In a a container with a lid, the plants only need an occasional misting when condensation no longer appears on the glass. Depending on how tight the lid is, this could be every few weeks or every few months. Closed-lid containers are ideal for mosses and houseplants that prefer high humidity, many of which won't grow that well otherwise. Since mosses don't have roots, they take in water that collects on the surface of their leaves, including from condensation. So lots of humidity is essential for them. Open containers are better for air plants and succulents. Air plants will need to be misted several times a week, while succulents will need the occasional watering every week or two. Purified water is recommended especially for misting because tap water will leave mineral deposits on the container's glass surface. You don't want that, and air plants and mosses often don't like those minerals either.
Sunlight
Moss doesn't need a ton of light, being that is usually grows near the forest floor. But it does still need light, and so a spot near a window with minimal direct light would be best. Other plants in your terrarium should do alright with that too. Air plants and succulents like more light. Generally in the northern hemisphere, south-facing windows get the most direct light, and north-facing windows get the least amount. East/west-facing windows get strong light in the morning/evening. Pick a location and watch the plants in your terrarium closely during the first few weeks. Orient the terrarium so that the plants are facing the sun. Once the plants are established and seem happy in the location you have chosen, you can try gradually rotating the terrarium to get more even growth if needed, but this does risk stressing the plant out. In the absence of sunlight, there are many stylish grow lights or desk lamps available that can do the job.
Nutrients, Air, & Drainage
Plants need more than sunlight and water, they also need a source of essential elements like nitrogen and phosphorus. Most plants get this from the soil through their roots. But mosses mostly absorb what they need through their leaves instead. Same with air plants. If growth seems stagnant, this can eventually be provided occasionally by misting with fertilizers sold for that purpose. Rooted plants in Mossaria terrariums shouldn't need much more fertilizer than what is already in the soil. As carbon-based life forms, plants also need a source of carbon, which they get from the carbon dioxide in the air during photosynthesis. So it's a good to open a closed terrarium every few weeks to refresh its atmosphere. This also prevents fungal growth. Mossaria terrariums all have a layer of small rocks or shells for water drainage on the bottom. Eventually, plant roots will find their way down there and draw the water they need. So a bit of water down there is good, but if too much accumulates you should cut back on the misting.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse