How To Make A Recycled Glass Terrarium

How To Make A Recycled Glass Terrarium

by Jennie Lyon

Children love to watch things grow and they enjoy getting their hands dirty. One of the best ways for them to do both is by helping them build an easy recycled glass terrarium. Terrariums are super-fun for children because it's like having an entire miniature world inside a glass jar. A terrarium is easy to make and simple to maintain, no matter the season. Our recycled glass terrarium can be made with any sized glass jar that you find in your recycling bin. Once your child has finished creating their terrarium, they can move it from room to room or even take it to school for show and tell since the lid screws on tight. You can make a terrarium with your child in just a few minutes, leaving them with a project that they will enjoy all year long. Read on to learn how to get started.

What you will need?

– empty glass jar with lid

– organic potting soil

– rocks or seashells

– several small plants or succulents

– spray bottle full of water

Step 1. Prepare the Terrarium

Remove the label from the jar, then thoroughly clean and dry it. We used a large pickle jar and a small jar that held canned fruit. However, you can use any size jar that is large enough to house the plants that you will be planting.

Next, add a small layer or rocks or seashells for drainage on the bottom of the glass jar. We used seashells because we live in a tropical climate. However, you can use rocks, pebbles or even gravel.

Step 2. Add the Soil

Add a couple of inches of organic potting soil on top of the rocks or seashells in the glass jar. Make sure to add enough soil so that the roots of your plants will be covered.

Step 3. Add the Plants

Since we live in a tropical climate, my son and I took a walk around our neighborhood and collected several small tropical plant and succulent off-shoots. You can collect plants and moss that are indigenous to your area, or pick up a few plants at your local farmer’s market.

Step 4. Water the Terrarium

Using a spray bottle, spray the inside of your terrarium with water until the soil is moist. When the inside walls of the terrarium are free from droplets, spray the inside of the terrarium down again.

Step 5. Give the Plants Light

Place your terrarium in an area of your home that receives either direct or in-direct sunlight (depending on the what the plants inside your terrarium require.)