I have a love affair with succulent terrariums that started when I saw a collection for sale at a trendy store near my house. One of my favorite restaurants started using them in their decor. A few months later, my hairdresser hung a collection of succulent terrariums in the corner of her salon. That was it. I had to have one (or fifty) in my house.

Professionally designed succulent terrariums can cost over $100 each. However, I discovered that they are easy and inexpensive to make, and also low maintenance.

Succulent terrarium supplies include:
• Clear Glass Containers: I bought mine at a thrift store for a few dollars each. I've seen cute ones at Target and Walmart too.
• Plain Potting Mix: It should be devoid of any fertilizers or other improvers. You don’t want your plants to grow too quickly.
• Ground Charcoal: Do not use BBQ charcoal; it should be in small chunks.
• Lava Rock: This comes in various sizes and colors. I used the small black variety, but I have seen terrariums with large red rock or even small white stones.
• A variety of succulent and/or cactus babies: I cut some babies from the pots in my front yard, but you can also buy these at Home Depot or your local nursery.

Helpful Tips:
• If you cut your own cactus or succulent babies, they need to dry out for about 72
hours before you plant them.
• Group your glass containers together before you buy them. Make sure they are
an interesting combination of heights and sizes that are pleasing to the eye.
• Clean and dry the glass containers thoroughly and try to avoid smudging them
with fingerprints. They are hard to clean once the terrarium has been assembled.

Step 1:  Put a layer of charcoal at the bottom of the glass containers. This helps absorb odors. 

Step 2:  Put a layer of lava rock on top of the charcoal. This helps with drainage.

 

 Step 3:  Put a layer of soil on top of the lava rock. My layer was about 2 inches thick. You can always add more soil once the plants are in place. 

 

Step 4:  Arrange the plants on top of the soil and decide on proper placement before you plant them in the dirt. If you are using cacti, you will probably want to wear gloves or use tongs. Nestle the succulents and/or cacti down in the dirt so they are nice and cozy. Don’t over think this part. It’s hard to mess up.

 

I think terrariums look best when grouped in odd numbers like three or five. I also think just a singular, remarkable succulent or cactus makes quite a statement.

Step 5:  Put another layer of lava rock on top of the soil and in between the plants. Add just enough water to moisten the soil. Less is more. 

Now, wasn’t that a piece of cake? I knew you could do it! Here is what mine looked like when I was done:  

 Pretty awesome if I do say so myself. Just imagine what they would look like if I had a childless house, expensive furniture, and tons of natural lighting! *sigh* 

Caring for your succulent terrarium:
• Water only when the soil seems very dry. A little water in a terrarium goes a long
way.
• Display your terrarium in a room that has a lot of natural light, but keep it out of
direct sunlight.
• Prune the plants with shears when they start to out grow their container.r. 

 How are you inspired by high-end interior design and what are some of the ways you modify ideas to your budget?