Very Humid Terrarium............mistake?

Question

Last night I put together a terrarium with a Hypoestes and an Arrow Head plant. As the pictures shows I used a layer of stones for draining, the my soil and planted the plants added some Deer Moss and some small pebbles and a little Fairy. When I awoke this morning the terrarium class was very moist on the inside, did I add too much water? Not enough stones? maybe too much moss? I did take the cover off to let it dry up a bit. The plants seem ok so far.

Barb Rosen · Answer

When there is condensation, it is a good idea to take the lid off and let it 'breathe'. Many plants will mildew, mold or start to fail if there is too much moisture. Very pretty terrarium!

Kristy · Answer

Thank youo for the compliment! I did take the top off and the condensation dissipated. How do I know when to put the top back on?

Bev Kent · Answer

I wouldn't put the top back on, looks prettier without. beware arrow head can grow very large

Kristy · Answer

Looks like its going to be an on again off again kinda terrarium....lol Would this stop if I had used a layer of charcoal?

Carole · Answer

I have heard you need to put some charcoal in there to assist with moisture and to stop it going stagnant or mouldy.

Kristy · Answer

I would love to and I have been told its cheap also, but what kind and where would you buy it at? I have asked at a few places and they look at me like I'm crazy!

Sow and Dipity · Answer

I teach terrarium classes at my garden center and I always use a base layer of charcoal. It's available at most garden centers in small bags and at pet stores in the aquatic section.... it's used in aquariums to filter water and to deter the build up of micro organisms. Terrariums are essentially mini eco systems... the charcoal will help oxygenate the roots in a sealed bottom glass bowl, but this doesn't mean you allow a layer of water to stand at the bottom. Just add enough water to dampen the soil and not too often. You did a lovely job... enjoy your mini world ;) I posted a bunch of terrariums here in this post if you would like to check them out: http://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/terrariums-in-all-shapes-and-sizes-2526595

Kristy · Answer

should I use the charcoal first and then the stones and then the dirt ect.....?

Sue Harrington · Answer

the charcoal should go between the drainage layer (sand, rocks...) and the soil. You did a beautiful job by the way.

Kristy · Answer

Thank you! I just made a smaller one. This one I have the carbon added to it. I did take the top off to let it air dry the water on the class. It has a small Fittonia in it.

Very Humid Terrarium............mistake?

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Very Humid Terrarium............mistake?

Terrariums in All Shapes and Sizes

Suggested Project Book