How to Make a Terrarium
Looking for a fun way to help your kids learn key concepts about the environment. Try making a terrarium with your kids in this life science project. These small, enclosed gardens are a great way to help your kids understand ecosystems.
What You Need:
To make your own terrarium, you will need the a few easy to find supplies. Choose a large glass, plastic jar or a small aquarium or other clear container. You’ll need a lid for your container to keep water vapor from escaping so that the ecosystem stays moist. You’ll need a vent, though, (poke small holes, if your lid does not have one) to allow some air into the terrarium. The only other thing required to make a terrarium is a small selection of plants.
How to choose plants for your terrarium
When it comes to selecting plants for your terrarium, it’s important to choose plants that will thrive in the enclosed environment. Here are some of the best plants to include:
Ferns:
Ferns are a great choice for a terrarium because they prefer moist environments with filtered light. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option.
Mosses:
Mosses are perfect for creating a lush, green carpet in your terrarium. They thrive in humid environments and very little maintenance.
Succulents:
Succulents are a popular choice for terrariums. They don’t need much water and come in a variety of interesting shapes and textures.
Air plants:
Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are perfect for terrariums because they don’t need soil to grow. Instead, they absorb water and nutrients through their leaves.
Small tropical plants:
Small tropical plants like Fittonia or Peperomia are great for adding pops of color and texture to your terrarium. They prefer high humidity and filtered light, making them a great fit for a terrarium environment.
Carnivorous plants:
Carnivorous plants like Venus Flytraps or Pitcher Plants can add a unique touch to your terrarium while also helping to control any pesky insects that may find their way inside.
How to build your Terrarium:
- Cover the bottom of the jar with 2-3 inches of dirt. You might also want to add some pebbles to the bottom for better soil drainage.
- When you put the plants in the soil, be sure not to crowd your terrarium with too many plants. If you want more than a few varieties, use separate containers. Use a spoon and fork to dig holes and set the plants in place if the mouth of the jar is too small for your hand to fit through.
- Place your terrarium in partial sunlight rather than hot, direct light. After the first time, you will only need to water your plants very occasionally if at all. (Over-watering will cause rot!) The water vapor from the plants will stay in the terrarium and be continually ‘recycled’ in this miniature water cycle. Condensed water vapor will cloud the sides of the container.
Science Lesson
The terrarium has a moist, rainforest-like environment. You might want to talk with your children about other common climates and the kinds of plant life found in each. Now that your kids have made a terrarium, challenge them to observe their plants needs, such as sunlight and water.
The terrarium requires little to no water after it being made. The water evaporates and condenses on the sides of the container, then falls back down onto the plants. This process is like the water cycle in nature, which involves evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. Click here for a free printable worksheet to teach your kids about the water-cycle.
Plants in a terrarium use sunlight to create energy through photosynthesis. Kids can learn about this process and how it is essential for plant growth and survival. Click here for a full lesson about photosynthesis.
