Open-Air Terrariums [Care Guide]
Equally stunning & just as fun to maintain as their enclosed relatives.
The open lid allows us to be a little more creative with the mini-scapes we create, and widens the possibilities of flora we can use. Open-air environments will still retain a great deal of humidity (depending on the size of the opening) – their just won’t be as much condensation.
Each open-air nature garden that we create is unique, and each vessel we use is unique, so the level and care & maintenance required will be individual to the terrarium you choose.
Open terrariums are great for those who prefer to actively maintain their indoor garden, rather than just sitting back and admiring an enclosed ecosystem.
Key care points:
- Easy care, low maintenance nature-scapes
- Bright, well lit spot [keep away from direct sun]
- Mist regularly
- Maintain water level (find balance)
- Remove any yellow or dried leaves
- Keep an eye out for pests!
POSITIONING (Light)
Keeping your terrarium in the right spot, receiving the right amount of light, will be the first and likely the most important decision you'll make for you're terrarium. In order for the process of photosynthesis to occur, your terrarium will need an adequate amount of light from the sun. However, be careful not to give it any direct sunlight, as this will cause the plants inside to scorch.
The happy medium you are looking for is what we plant lovers refer to as "bright/indirect" light. The holy grail of plant positioning. You are mimicking the idea of dappled light in a rainforest, where only a few filtered rays of the sun's shine peek through down to the bottom of the forest floor.
A well lit window sill or brightly lit room make for great spots.
Grow lights are a great source of supplementary light if you simply cant find the perfect spot!
WATERING
The most glaring difference in maintaining an open terrarium is that it will require some watering from time to time.
Without being completely sealed, open-air terrariums don’t create their own self-sustaining water cycle so they do require that extra bit of care and maintenance (but that is half the fun!).
Because water vapour is able to escape from the vessel, you will need to top it up on sparing occasions.
The easiest method is to simply use your eyes! If you notice the reservoir of water is empty or your plants are looking crisp…it’s time for a drink.
Each open-air landscape we create is unique so there is no set watering prescription…the key is balance. Enough water to keep your garden alive, but not so much that you will introduce rot.
We also encourage misting your open terrarium [up to a few times a day] with a fine spray to encourage humidity and further decrease the need for watering.
Don’t hesitate to have a chat to us when purchasing your open terrarium to discuss an appropriate watering schedule for your individual piece.
MOULD/FUNGUS
In some instances, if your terrarium stays too humid, too stagnant, for too long you my attract early signs of mould or fungus. This is one of the few drawbacks of an enclosed terrarium.
On the first signs of fluffy white or green mould, remove it quickly with a dry paper towel or ear bud.
To avoid mould and fungus altogether, regularly ventilate the terrarium for a couple of hours (once a week or so) to introduce some form of air flow - and ensure you aren't overwatering.