Bringing a little bit of the forest indoors is easier than ever with our closed Forest or Jungle terrariums at Sprouts of Bristol. Whether you’ve purchased a handmade one, used one of our kits, or built your own in one of our workshops, caring for these lush mini-ecosystems is simple. Inspired by nature and perfected by botanist Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward in 1842, closed terrariums thrive in a self-sustaining environment.
Here’s the low down on how to keep yours vibrant, healthy and happy!
The Right Light for Your Forest Terrarium
Bright, Indirect Light
Forest terrariums need bright, indirect light to support healthy growth. This generally means the natural light is bright enough to read a newspaper in - but never enough direct sun to cast a shadow. Too much direct sun can overheat the glass, creating a greenhouse effect and frying your plants! Choose a well-lit room, but avoid placing it in direct sunlight.
Clean Glass for Healthier Plants
Grimy glass can stop enough light getting in, so make sure it doesn’t get clogged up. If you notice the glass looking less than clear, a quick wipe with a damp cloth will do it a miniature world of good. If the opening of your terrarium is smaller, something like an old toothbrush with a bit of cloth on the end will help you keep it sparkling clean! (Just don’t use it again on your teeth after…)
Watering Your Mini Jungle
Closed terrariums are largely self-watering due to the moisture cycle within the enclosure. Check the soil every few weeks by eye, and if it looks dry, a light misting is usually all that’s needed.
Too much moisture can lead to excessive condensation, so if the terrarium looks overly damp, take the lid off briefly to let excess moisture evaporate. The goal is a balanced, slightly humid environment.
Humidity
Closed terrariums naturally maintain the high humidity that helps plants and mosses thrive. The humidity created inside is just right for the specially selected plants in our forest terrariums, so you won’t need to mist or do anything extra to maintain humidity.
Living Springtails!
Keep an eye out for tiny springtails hopping around inside—these harmless bugs are there to clean up by eating mould and leaf litter, keeping your bioactive terrarium clean and healthy.
Soil Layers for Optimal Health
The layers in our terrariums prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. The activated charcoal and zeolite in the soil mix also filter out impurities, ensuring a clean, stable environment for your plants.
No Fertiliser Needed
The soil in your terrarium is nutrient-rich enough for slow, steady growth. If you choose to fertilise, do so sparingly - these plants are best kept small and manageable.
Temperature
Room Temperature Perfection
A steady indoor temperature of 16 - 21°C is ideal for forest terrariums. The glass container retains a bit of warmth, but avoid placing your terrarium in direct sunlight or near heating sources, as this can cause overheating and excessive condensation, and damage your plants.
Avoid Temperature Extremes
Terrariums are happiest in stable conditions, away from any direct heat or cold drafts. Either extreme can harm your tiny ecosystem and the plants inside it; a good indication is, if it’s a comfortable, warm indoor temperature for you, it’s likely to be about right for your terrarium.
Minimal Pruning and Maintenance
Closed terrariums are remarkably self-sufficient, needing only an occasional tidy-up. Trim any yellowing or browning leaves to keep the environment healthy and prevent decay.
Every month or so, check the condensation, leaf colour, and soil dampness - if everything looks balanced, your terrarium is in good shape.
Sprouts’ Top Tips for a Healthy Forest Terrarium
- Don’t over-care for your terrarium; it’s designed to be its own little ecosystem, thriving with minimal attention.
- If condensation builds up too much, briefly air it out by removing the lid.
- Keep an eye on leaf health - crispy, brown edges may mean it’s time for a little more water. Soggy brown leaves might indicate it needs repositioning for better light.
- Enjoy the journey of watching your terrarium grow! Each one is unique and has its own rhythm.
Your forest terrarium brings a touch of nature indoors with a miniature, self-sustaining ecosystem that’s as beautiful as it is easy to care for. If you ever need more advice or want help refreshing your terrarium, visit us at Sprouts of Bristol - we’re always here to keep your mini jungle thriving!
