Terrarium Maintenance 101: Tips for Keeping Your Miniature Ecosystem Thriving

Terrariums might be the ultimate low-maintenance plant setup, but even these little ecosystems need a bit of TLC to keep them looking their best. The beauty of terrariums is that they thrive on minimal care, but a few small actions can make all the difference between a good terrarium and a truly spectacular one.

Over the years, I’ve learned that maintaining a terrarium is less about hard work and more about developing a gentle routine. With just a few easy steps, you can ensure your tiny garden stays lush, green, and healthy for years to come.

Quick Tips for Terrarium Care

1. Watering: Less is More

One of the most common mistakes people make with terrariums is overwatering. Because they’re enclosed, terrariums recycle moisture, meaning they rarely need a top-up. Too much water can lead to soggy soil and dreaded root rot.

What to do:

• Use a mister sparingly to lightly hydrate the soil and plants.
• Watch for signs of overwatering, like condensation that doesn’t disappear or yellowing leaves. If you see this, leave the lid off for a day or two to let things dry out.
• Our Happy Houseplants Terrarium Kits include a handy mister, making it easy to avoid overwatering and keep your plants happy.

2. Lighting: Keep It Bright but Indirect

Terrariums love light, but too much direct sunlight can quickly turn them into an overheated sauna. The glass container traps heat, which can damage your plants.

What to do:

• Place your terrarium in a spot with bright, indirect light, like near a window with filtered light.
• Avoid direct sunlight at all costs, especially during the hotter months.

3. Cleaning: Keep That Glass Sparkling

Over time, your terrarium’s glass can get foggy or collect dust and fingerprints. Keeping it clean not only makes it look fresh but also ensures maximum light reaches your plants.

What to do:

• Wipe the inside and outside of the glass gently with a soft, damp cloth.
• For stubborn spots, use a mix of water and white vinegar, but be careful not to get the plants wet.

4. Pruning: Give Your Plants Room to Breathe

As your terrarium plants grow, they may start to crowd each other or push against the sides of the container. Regular pruning helps maintain a balanced, healthy ecosystem.

What to do:

• Trim back plants as needed to prevent overcrowding.
• Remove any dead leaves or plants immediately to avoid mould or decay.
• Pruning is also a great time to get creative! Rearrange any hardscape elements like cork or stones to refresh the look of your terrarium.

5. Feeding: Give Your Plants a Nutrient Boost

Even in a self-contained environment, plants need occasional feeding to stay vibrant and healthy. A small amount of fertiliser can go a long way in promoting growth.

What to do:

• Use a gentle, organic fertiliser like our Organic Tropical Plant Food to give your plants the nutrients they need.
• Dilute the food as recommended and apply sparingly—your terrarium plants don’t need much.
• You can find our Organic Tropical Plant Food here, perfect for keeping your terrarium lush and green.

Why Terrarium Care is So Rewarding

Taking a few moments to care for your terrarium isn’t just about keeping it alive—it’s also about creating a calming, mindful routine. Whether it’s misting the plants, wiping the glass, or trimming a fern, these small tasks help you slow down and connect with nature.

Terrariums may be low-maintenance, but the little bit of care they do require is part of what makes them so special. It’s a relationship between you and your miniature garden, and the reward is a thriving, beautiful ecosystem you can enjoy every day.

Ready to Start or Refresh Your Terrarium?

Whether you’re a terrarium newbie or a seasoned pro, our Happy Houseplants Terrarium Kits make it easy to create and maintain a gorgeous tiny world. With everything you need included—plants, substrates, a 20cm glass globe, and even a mister—it’s the perfect way to bring a little greenery into your home.

Share Your Maintenance Tips and Creations!

How do you keep your terrarium thriving? We’d love to hear your tips and see your creations! Share your mini gardens with us on Instagram using #HappyHouseplantsTerrariums and inspire our community of plant lovers. And don’t forget to visit our blog for more tips, tricks, and stories to keep your plants happy and healthy. Together, let’s grow something amazing!