There's something captivating about terrariums. Like ships in a bottle, or snow globes, they offer up a miniature world you can easily get lost in. However, what sets terrariums apart is the fact they're self-sustaining ecosystems. Despite being small, these pockets of organic life can totally transform a room. To help you find the right one for you, we've a compiled a list of our picks for the Best DIY Terrarium Kits (plus a few classes thrown in for good measure). Time to get those fingers green, and build one from the soil up!
So what exactly is a terrarium? Simply put, terrariums are mini ecosystems created in glass or plastic vessels containing plants, soil, minerals and a host of other things. The idea? Bring the outside in. Terrariums can be open or closed (although the open variety are best suited to succulents/desert plants only) and come in many different shapes and sizes.
Most likely, you've seen many pre-built terrariums for sale before, but what's really taken the world by storm is DIY Terrarium Kits. By giving you all the requisite tools and ingredients, these allow you to construct miniature paradises all on your own. There are a wide variety of terrarium kits, including cactus terrarium kits, succulent terrarium kits and terrarium starter kits, so botanical lovers are spoilt for choice.
Are terrariums high maintenance?
The answer to this depends on your definition of the term. If you consider watering your plants and cleaning your glass once a week to be high maintenance, then terrariums might not be for you. However, if you're willing to put in a little bit of effort and care, then a terrarium can be a low-maintenance way to add some greenery to your home.
In fact, if you follow a few simple guidelines, terrariums can be pretty easy to care for. So, if you're looking for a way to add a little bit of life to your home without all the hassle, a terrarium could be the perfect solution. Here's a couple of tips to keep your terrarium thriving:
- Most plants need at least six hours of sunlight per day, so ensure your terrarium receives enough light. If your terrarium is in a spot that doesn't get much sun, you may want to consider using a grow light.
- Be careful not to over water your plants. Too much water will cause the roots to rot, and the plant will eventually die. Err on the side of too little water rather than too much.
- Keep an eye out for pests. If you spy any pesky insects in your terrarium, remove them immediately, as they can destroy the plants.
Is glass or plastic better for terrariums?
Glass or plastic? It's a question that's divided the terrarium community for years. Some people swear by glass, while others remain loyal to plastic. So, which is the better option? Well, it all depends on your needs. If you're looking for something affordable and durable, then plastic is the way to go. However, if you want your terrarium to have a sleeker, more natural look, then glass is the better choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Whatever you choose, just ensure you keep your terrarium healthy and happy!
How long can a self-sustaining terrarium last?
A terrarium is a self-contained ecosystem, so as long as the conditions are optimal, it can theoretically last indefinitely. Of course, though terrariums have a long lifespan, if not properly attended to things can occasionally go wrong. For example, if the container is not airtight, outside contaminants can enter the system and disrupt the delicate balance. Similarly, if the terrarium is not big enough, the limited resources might eventually become depleted. In practice, most terrariums only last for a few years before they need to be refreshed. But with proper care, a terrarium can be a beautiful and low-maintenance way to enjoy nature for many years.
The Top 15 Best Build your Own Terrarium Kits are:
- Cork Jar Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
- Lab Jar Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
- Eden Dome Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
- Desert Succulent & Cactus Terrarium Kit — Floral Merchant London
- Large Glass Egg Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
- Terrarium Kit Ingredients — Botanical Boys
- Make your Own Kokedama Kit — Ferris Heart Sloane
- Starter Terrarium Kit for Two — Twinny
- Make Your Own Tabletop Terrarium Kit — Ferris Heart Sloane
- Terrarium Starter Kit —The Art of Succulents
- Aztec Gem Terrarium Kit — The Urban Botanist
- Kilner Jar Terrarium Kit — The Watered Garden
- Terrarium Masterclass — Botanical Boys
- Grande Eco System — The Urban Botanist
- Closed DIY Terrarium Kit — Tropical Glass London
1. Cork Jar Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
Our number one pick is a gorgeous, rustic terrarium that features a diverse array of plant-life. Brought to you by The Botanical Boys, this option is perfect for those who want to get their hands dirty. Containing sphagnum moss, activated carbon, decorative stones, and of course a set of suitable plants, the Cork Jar Terrarium Kit is a real beauty.
A step-by-step guide is provided with the starter kit, plus you can even join a live online class with the Botanical Boys themselves. They'll provide you with handy tips and tricks to keep your terrarium alive and flourishing.
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2. Lab Jar Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
Another amazing kit from the Botanical Boys, the lab Jar Terrarium Kit has a time-honoured quality to it. The striking glass jar provides a winning aesthetic, juxtaposing perfectly with the diverse plant life it contains.
The kit includes Glass vessel clay pellets, decorative stones, sphagnum moss, activated carbon, soil, bun moss or Sheet moss for decoration, and the all the tools you need to put it together.
A fitting centre-piece for your office or home, why not get your hands dirty, connect with nature, and enjoy the mindful practice of creating your own miniature world?
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3. Eden Dome Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
Bring paradise to your living room with the Eden Dome Terrarium Kit. This terrarium isn't not only gorgeous, but the tools and ingredients are eco-friendly.
Developed in partnership with Cornwall’s famous Eden Project, Canopy is a range of sustainably produced glassware. The recycled glass dome you receive with the kit has even won an award! What's more, it also comes boxed in graphic packaging, made from recycled materials and printed with organic vegetable inks.
It comes with all the ingredients you need to create your own eden, like spanghum moss, decorative stones, and one suitable plant. A great choice for those conscience about their environmental impact, this sustainable wonder is sure to light up a room.
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4. Desert Succulent & Cactus Terrarium Kit — Floral Merchant London
Time to get zen, relax your mind, and fuel your creative juices. Floral Merchant London are giving you the opportunity to bring a piece of the dessert to your home. The stylish kit comes with cacti and succulents, along with pebbles, decorative moss and driftwood, plus all the tools you need to bring it to life.
What's more, you'll also have access to a beautifully shot video tutorial that guides you through every step of the process, meaning you can learn anywhere, anytime. A striking centre-piece for your interior, this dessert terrarium will keep you company for years to come.
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5. Large Glass Egg Terrarium Kit — Botanical Boys
Are you egg-cited! One of the more sizable terrarium's on this list, the Large Glass Egg Terrarium Kit is one of a kind.
As the container is so spacious, it offers you the opportunity to really go wild with its contents. Coming with all the usual tools and ingredients, the kit gives you the freedom to create your own magnificent design. Like the image above shows, you can use a larger, striking plant as the focal point of the terrarium. Time to go big!
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6. Terrarium Kit Ingredients — Botanical Boys
If you already have a container for your Terrarium, this diverse selection of ingredients is all you need to bring it to life. Coming in either small or large bundles, it includes clay pellets, decorative stones, sphagnum moss, activated carbon, soil, a fittonia plant, a cork stick and brush, and a useful guide.
The small bundle is fine for jars with a diameter 12cm or less, but anything bigger and you should opt for the larger terrarium kit ingredients.
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7. Make your Own Kokedama Kit — Ferris Heart Sloane
Next we have a kit that literally can't be contained! Kokedama is a Japanese term meaning “ball of moss”, and refers to little houseplants which grow in a moss-covered ball and often sit on a decorative tray or plates on a table or shelf. They also look stunning hanging from the ceiling, appearing much like little green planets.
Book an online class with Ferris Heart Sloane and learn how to make this highly unique plant to add to your space. By the end of your online class, you'll have not one, but two beautiful bundles of gorgeous greenery to admire, as well a sense of calm and accomplishment having spent an hour creating not one, but two plant friends! What's not to love?
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8. Starter Terrarium Kit for Two — Twinny
Looking to add a unique twist to your date night? The Tropical Starter Terrarium Kit from Leafage could deliver that je ne sais quoi. Not only do you get to learn a new skill, but you'll also end up with two mini, self sustaining terrariums—adorable additions to any windowsill.
This kit, sent straight to your door, contains all the tools and materials you need to create your evocative ecosystems. This includes, 3 pots of tropical plants (fittonia and fern), tropical moss, pebbles, soil, grit, stones, and activated charcoal. But that's not all, the kit also comes with a step-by-step guide from the Leafage team. Time to replace those unpleasant memories of building frustrating Swedish furniture by building a perfect oasis with your loved one.
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9. Make Your Own Tabletop Terrarium Kit — Ferris Heart Sloane
For those who're new to this unique craft, and looking for a little guidance, we've got the solution for you. Under the friendly instruction of a floral expert from Ferris Heart Sloane, you'll be able to transform your DIY starter kit into a mini-jungle paradise!
Succulent terrarium workshops are a wonderful way to spend time with your friends, family, or work colleagues. There's zero pressure; only the encouragement to explore the world of plants in a friendly, relaxing environment. What's more, you'll end the workshop with a beautiful keepsake, or beautiful gift to those who consider themselves "plant-challenged. All in all, Ferris Heart Sloane offer more than just a terrarium; they offer a communal, creative experience. No wonder they have our stamp of approval!
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10. Terrarium Starter Kit —The Art of Succulents
With a name like "The Art of Succulents", you can be confident this guys have delivered a top of the line starter kit. Coming with all you need to create a fantastic terrarium, this kit is a great choice for those who already have a large container they want to fill.
It includes an impressive range of high quality ingredients, from gravel, to 1300g of succulent succulent & cacti compost, to a watering pipe, and much more Everything you need to get those fingers mossy and muscle up a masterpiece!
11. Aztec Gem Terrarium Kit — The Urban Botanist
This stunning Aztec Gem Terrarium is an amazing way to create a focal point in your interior design. The glass vessel is an intricate, hand-made design that is sent to your door, along with a selection of hand-picked plants (either cacti or succulents depending on your choice).
You can also add a personal touch to this terrarium with fairy lights or even a personalised message on a wooden board. Considering its elegant and unique design, this kit can easily become the cynosure of every soiree!
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12. Kilner Jar Terrarium Kit — The Watered Garden
Few things have as traditional and dignified an aesthetic as a Kilner Jar. Now, The Watered Garden are giving you the chance to fill the traditional, glass container with a flourishing miniature world!
This neat little kit is suitable for beginners, and comes with a colourful selection of ingredients. However, plants aren't included, so you'll need to get creative and explore what greenery is best suited to your kilner jar.
It shouldn't take you longer than 2 hours to fully set up, and when you're finished, you'll have a charming terrarium your grandparents would be proud of!
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13. Terrarium Masterclass — Botanical Boys
Though more than just DIY kit, we had to include this as it's such an amazing opportunity for Terrarium lovers. Brought to you by terrarium veterans, The Botanical Boys, the Terrarium Masterclass is an exciting and engaging learning experience.
Build a self-sustaining living garden in a 3 ltr glass jar topped with a natural cork lid to take home with you, as well as a history lesson followed by a full step by step building experience by one of their amazing caring tutors.
Learn about the history of terrariums, layering, planting, and watering techniques, and much more! A once in a lifetime opportunity, the Terrarium Masterclass has proved extremely popular, and we can see why!
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14. Grande Eco System — The Urban Botanist
From the Urban Botanist, the Grande Eco System is one of the more elegant options on this list. Completely self-sustaining, it contains three tropical plants as well as springy natural moss. Perfect for plant lovers with hectic lives, the sealed ecosystem requires zero maintenance. What's more, the flask is made from recycled glass, so you can be safe in the knowledge your terrarium is as beautiful as it is environmentally friendly.
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15. Closed DIY Terrarium Kit — Tropical Glass London
One of the best-selling DIY Starter Kits around, at first glance, its price-tag of £59.99 may seem a little pricey. However, the team at Tropical Glass London haven't scrimped on the ingredients. This kit includes everything you need to truly let your imagination off the leash, and fashion a glorious ecosystem that will lift your spirits every time you see it.
Every element is specially selected and carefully thought through, from the three plants (a fittonia, parlour palm and syngonium) to the many premium decorative items. As with most kits, you'll also get a guide to ensure you don't make any errors and can keep your little ecosystem thriving.
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Time to get green-fingered!
Many people are apprehensive when it comes to working with plants. They feel like they lack the discipline or skills to successfully keep their green friends flourishing. Not only are terrariums a great entry-point for botanical beginners, but creating them is a unique and fun activity in its own right. Who knows, after your first foray into these mini ecosystems, you may become hooked, and your house will transform into a floral paradise!
Need more advice?
Take a read of some of our other amazing guides and top 10 round ups below. We're sure you'll find something useful, oh - and don't forget to share the love.
Obby out.