The Best Terrarium Containers!

Terrariums are a captivating way to bring a piece of nature into your home, and choosing the right terrarium containers are a crucial step in creating a thriving, visually appealing environment.

Whether you are interested in open-air succulent arrangements or closed, moisture-loving plant ecosystems, your container selection can make a world of difference.

Best Terrarium Containers

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1. Glass Jars and Bottles

Glass jars and bottles are popular choices for terrariums, especially for those looking to create a whimsical or minimalist display. These containers are available in various sizes and shapes, from mason jars to tall wine bottles. I like to save my Starbucks Mocha bottles to use for terrariums and propagation jars!

• Best for: Closed terrariums with mosses, ferns, and tropical plants that love humidity.
• Pros: Clear glass provides excellent visibility and allows light to reach all parts of the terrarium.
• Cons: Narrow openings can make planting tricky; long tweezers and specialized terrarium tools may be required.

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2. Fish Bowls and Aquariums

Repurposing fish bowls and aquariums as terrarium containers is a fantastic way to create larger and more elaborate plant displays. These containers provide ample space for layering substrate, rocks, and decorative accessories. You can find cheap aquariums and fish bowls at your local Goodwill and thrift stores!

• Best for: Both open and closed terrariums, depending on whether you cover the top.
• Pros: Easy to access for planting and maintenance, and they allow for complex plant arrangements.
• Cons: Larger sizes may require more soil and plants, increasing maintenance and initial setup effort.

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3. Geometric Glass Terrariums

Geometric terrariums are among the most stylish options, often featuring metal frames that add a touch of modern elegance to your indoor garden. These are ideal for displaying succulents and cacti.

• Best for: Open terrariums that require good airflow, like succulent arrangements.
• Pros: Their structured shapes—like pyramids, cubes, and teardrops—make for striking decor pieces.
• Cons: Limited humidity retention; best for arid plants that don’t need high moisture levels.

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4. Hanging Terrariums

Hanging terrarium containers are perfect for adding greenery to small or vertical spaces. These glass globes can be hung from ceilings or mounted on walls, making them ideal for air plants (Tillandsia) or cascading succulents.

• Best for: Air plants or small succulents that don’t require much soil or moisture.
• Pros: Space-saving, decorative, and add a playful element to any room.
• Cons: Require stable hanging fixtures and gentle care to prevent damage.

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5. Terrarium Bowls and Dishes

Wide, shallow bowls and dishes are great for open terrariums that require lots of light and airflow. These containers work well for drought-tolerant plants like succulents and cacti, allowing you to create a desert-inspired landscape.

• Best for: Open terrariums featuring succulents, cacti, and small decorative stones.
• Pros: Easy to plant and arrange, with a low profile that works well on tabletops and windowsills.
• Cons: Limited soil depth may not support plants with extensive root systems.

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6. Cloches and Bell Jars as Terrarium Containers

Cloches and bell jars add an element of old-world charm to terrarium setups. They are typically placed over a base and used to create a high-humidity environment for tropical plants.

• Best for: Closed terrariums with humidity-loving plants.
• Pros: Easy to lift for watering and plant care; provide an elegant, decorative element.
• Cons: Limited space for larger plant species; require careful monitoring of moisture levels.

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7. Recycled and Upcycled Terrarium Containers

For those who love DIY projects, almost any glass container can be upcycled into a terrarium. Think old coffee pots, cookie jars, or even light bulbs. These containers add a unique and personal touch to your terrarium designs.

• Best for: Budget-friendly terrarium projects and creative displays.
• Pros: Eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and highly customizable.
• Cons: Varying levels of difficulty based on container shape and size.

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Terrarium Tips for Container Success

• Light Requirements: Match your container choice to your plants’ light needs. Closed terrariums should avoid direct sunlight to prevent overheating, while open terrariums benefit from bright, indirect light.
• Airflow and Humidity: Open containers provide airflow, ideal for succulents, while closed containers retain humidity, perfect for tropical plants.
• Drainage Layers: Regardless of container type, adding a drainage layer of pebbles or activated charcoal helps prevent root rot.

Learn more about Terrariums!

• How to Create a Closed Terrarium
• Best tools for building Terrariums
• Best Plants for Closed Terrariums

Choosing the best container for your terrarium is all about matching the container’s style and functionality to your plant selection and decor preferences. From elegant glass jars to modern geometric vessels, there’s a terrarium container to suit every taste. Use these ideas to create a captivating indoor garden that’s both beautiful and low-maintenance.

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Want More?

Houseplants are gorgeous living home decor. It is worthwhile learning how to properly care for them. 

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