best plants for a covered terrarium

This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how carefully selected plants can truly transform a covered terrarium. I’ve tested a variety of options, and these three caught my eye for different reasons. The Mini Ferns for Terrariums & Fairy Gardens – 2″ Pots from Hirt’s Gardens stood out because of their seasonal variety and ease of trimming, making them perfect for dynamic, lush displays. The Mini Fern Plants (6) 2″ Pots for Terrariums & Fairy Gardens from Optiflora offers six different plants, giving more variety but at a higher price. Meanwhile, the Mini Terrarium Plants (2) Fairy Garden Assorted 2″ Pots from Optiflora provides two high-humidity-loving varieties, but fewer plants overall. After thorough testing, I recommend the Hirt’s Ferns because their size, seasonal diversity, and ease of maintenance make them the most versatile and value-packed choice. They are resilient in humid environments and can be expertly trimmed for a perfect fit. Trust me, these ferns will elevate your terrarium effortlessly.

Top Recommendation: Mini Ferns for Terrariums & Fairy Gardens – 2″ Pots (3)

Why We Recommend It: This set offers a perfect balance of variety, size, and ease of care. The seasonal variation ensures your terrarium stays fresh and engaging, while the 2″ pots are ideal for compact spaces. Compared to the six-plant set, these are more flexible for customization. Also, their straightforward trimming means less fuss for ongoing maintenance, making them the smartest choice for a thriving covered terrarium.

Best plants for a covered terrarium: Our Top 3 Picks

• Mini Ferns for Terrariums & Fairy Gardens – 2″ Pots (3) – Best plants for small terrarium
• Mini Fern Plants (6) 2″ Pots for Terrariums & Fairy Gardens – Best plants for indoor terrariums
• Mini Terrarium Plants (2) Fairy Garden Assorted 2″ Pots – Best low-maintenance plants for terrariums

What Characteristics Should Plants Have for a Covered Terrarium?

When selecting plants for a covered terrarium, it’s important to consider their specific characteristics that make them suitable for a humid, enclosed environment.

• Humidity Tolerance: Plants that thrive in high humidity are essential for covered terrariums, as they create an ideal environment where moisture is retained. These plants can naturally adapt to the moisture levels within an enclosed space, preventing leaf drop and promoting healthy growth.
• Low Light Requirements: Many covered terrariums do not receive direct sunlight, so choosing plants that can thrive in low light conditions is crucial. These plants can photosynthesize effectively in dim environments, ensuring that they remain healthy and vibrant without the need for excessive light.
• Slow Growth Rate: Plants with a slow growth rate are more manageable in a confined space, reducing the need for frequent pruning or repotting. This characteristic allows the terrarium to maintain its aesthetic for longer periods without becoming overcrowded or unkempt.
• Small Size: Smaller plants are ideal for terrariums as they won’t outgrow their space too quickly. Compact species can create a balanced ecosystem within the terrarium, allowing for a diverse arrangement without overwhelming the limited area.
• Self-Contained Ecosystem Compatibility: Plants that can coexist and support each other in a closed ecosystem are beneficial. They often have similar water and nutrient requirements, which helps maintain the balance in the terrarium’s microenvironment, fostering a harmonious growth space.

How Do Humidity and Temperature Affect Plant Choice?

Humidity and temperature are crucial factors in selecting the best plants for a covered terrarium, as they influence plant health and growth.

• Tropical Plants: Tropical plants thrive in high humidity and warm temperatures, making them ideal for covered terrariums where moisture is retained. They often feature lush foliage and vibrant colors, enhancing the visual appeal of the terrarium.
• Ferns: Ferns prefer humid environments and can tolerate lower light conditions, which makes them perfect for covered terrariums. Their delicate fronds add texture and greenery, contributing to the overall aesthetic while benefiting from the humidity provided by the closed environment.
• Sedums and Succulents: While typically associated with drier climates, certain sedums and succulents can adapt to the conditions of a covered terrarium if care is taken to ensure good drainage. These plants can add variety and color, but it’s essential to monitor humidity levels to prevent rot.
• Mosses: Mosses thrive in moist conditions and can help maintain humidity levels in a covered terrarium. They are easy to care for and provide a soft, lush carpet-like appearance, making them an excellent choice for creating a serene landscape.
• Peperomia: Peperomia plants are well-suited for covered terrariums as they enjoy humidity but do not require excessive watering. Their diverse leaf shapes and colors add interest while their compact size makes them perfect for contained environments.

Which Plant Sizes Are Ideal for Enclosed Spaces?

The best plants for a covered terrarium are typically small and thrive in humidity, making them ideal for enclosed spaces.

• Ferns: Ferns such as the Button Fern or Maidenhair Fern thrive in the humid environment of a terrarium.
• Succulents: Small varieties of succulents, like Echeveria or Haworthia, are hardy and require minimal water, making them suitable for well-drained terrariums.
• Moss: Live moss, such as Sheet Moss or Cushion Moss, adds a lush green aesthetic and helps retain moisture within the terrarium.
• Air Plants (Tillandsias): These unique plants don’t require soil and absorb moisture from the air, making them perfect for covered terrariums.
• Miniature Pothos: The small size and trailing nature of Pothos make it an attractive choice for adding greenery and purifying the air.

Ferns like the Button Fern or Maidenhair Fern are popular for their delicate foliage and ability to thrive in the humid conditions of a terrarium. They require indirect light and regular misting to keep their fronds healthy and vibrant.

Small varieties of succulents, such as Echeveria or Haworthia, are excellent options due to their low maintenance needs and resilience. They prefer bright light and well-draining soil, making them ideal for terrariums that have good air circulation.

Live moss, including Sheet Moss and Cushion Moss, is often used to create a soft, green carpet in terrariums. Moss not only enhances the visual appeal but also helps maintain humidity levels, which is crucial for the health of other plants in the terrarium.

Air Plants (Tillandsias) are fascinating because they don’t require soil to grow; instead, they absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. They thrive in humid environments and can be creatively placed in terrariums for a unique display.

Miniature Pothos is a versatile plant that can adapt well to the closed environment of a terrarium. Its trailing vines can create a lovely cascading effect, and it also helps to purify the air while requiring minimal care.

What Are the Best Plant Options for Covered Terrariums?

The best plants for a covered terrarium thrive in humid environments and can adapt to the confined space.

• Ferns: Ferns are excellent choices due to their love for humidity and low light conditions. They provide lush greenery and can create a vibrant, layered look in the terrarium.
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Fittonia is known for its striking foliage with bold veining, adding visual interest to your terrarium. It prefers moist soil and indirect light, making it ideal for the enclosed environment.
• Moss: Mosses are perfect for terrariums as they thrive in high humidity and can cover the soil surface, creating a natural aesthetic. They require minimal care and can help retain moisture within the terrarium.
• Peperomia: Peperomia plants come in various shapes and colors, providing diversity to your terrarium. They are compact and can tolerate lower light levels, making them suitable for covered setups.
• Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii): Baby Tears are small, delicate plants that spread quickly and create a lush, green carpet in the terrarium. They thrive in moisture and indirect sunlight, making them a great option for a covered space.
• Spider Plant: Spider plants are hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They can tolerate varying light conditions and help purify the air inside the terrarium.

Which Ferns Are Perfect for Closed Terrariums?

The best plants for a covered terrarium include a variety of ferns that thrive in humid environments.

• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): This classic fern is known for its lush, arching fronds that create a vibrant green display.
• Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum): With delicate, fan-shaped leaflets, the Maidenhair Fern adds a soft texture and is ideal for terrariums due to its love for humidity.
• Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia): This compact fern features round leaflets, making it a perfect choice for smaller terrariums where space is limited.
• Staghorn Fern (Platycerium): Known for its unique, antler-like fronds, the Staghorn Fern can be grown in terrariums, adding an interesting architectural element.
• Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus): This fern has broad, wavy leaves that form a rosette, making it visually appealing and easy to maintain in a closed environment.

The Boston Fern is particularly popular in closed terrariums because it thrives in high humidity and low light, making it a resilient choice for indoor gardens. Its ability to absorb moisture from the air helps maintain the humid environment crucial for terrarium success.

The Maidenhair Fern prefers indirect light and high humidity, thriving in the moist conditions of a covered terrarium. Its delicate foliage adds a touch of elegance, but it does require consistent watering to prevent wilting.

The Button Fern is an excellent option for small terrariums, as it grows slowly and remains compact. It tolerates lower light conditions and adds a unique visual interest with its round leaves.

The Staghorn Fern, often mounted on wood, can also be placed in terrariums where it can enjoy the humid atmosphere. Its distinct frond shapes create a focal point, and it is relatively low-maintenance if provided with enough moisture.

The Bird’s Nest Fern is favored for its lush, green appearance and ability to thrive in closed environments. It requires moderate light and benefits from the humidity of a terrarium, making it a great addition to any small ecosystem.

What Vines Thrive in a Sealed Environment?

The best plants for a covered terrarium include those that thrive in high humidity and low light conditions.

• Pothos: This hardy vine is well-known for its ability to adapt to various lighting conditions and thrives in humidity. Its trailing vines can grow several feet long, making it ideal for creating a lush, green appearance in a sealed environment.
• Philodendron: Philodendrons are popular for terrariums due to their attractive heart-shaped leaves and ability to grow in low light. They prefer moist soil and high humidity, which makes them perfect for the closed environment of a terrarium.
• String of Hearts: This charming vine features small, heart-shaped leaves along its delicate stems and is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy. It does well in indirect light and prefers slightly drier conditions, making it a unique choice for a terrarium.
• English Ivy: English Ivy is a versatile vine that can thrive in a variety of conditions, including a terrarium. Its ability to tolerate low light and high humidity makes it an excellent choice for covered spaces, plus it can be trained to climb or trail.
• Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig): This small-leaved vine is ideal for terrariums, as it can cling to surfaces and add texture. It thrives in humid environments and indirect light, making it suitable for sealed glass containers.

Which Unique Foliage Plants Should You Consider?

When choosing unique foliage plants for a covered terrarium, consider these options that offer diverse textures, colors, and adaptability to humidity and lighting conditions.

• Ferns: Varieties like the Maidenhair Fern and Boston Fern thrive in humid environments and bring a lush, green aesthetic to your terrarium with their delicate fronds.

• Peperomia: This genus features many types, including Peperomia obtusifolia and Peperomia caperata. They have interesting leaf shapes and colors, from deep green to mottled red, making them visually striking.

• Pilea: Known as the Chinese Money Plant, Pilea peperomioides has round, coin-like leaves that add a quirky touch. It prefers indirect light and thrives in a humid atmosphere.

• Spider Plant: While often seen in traditional pots, the spider plant’s arching leaves and potential for producing baby plants can create a dynamic display in a terrarium setting.

• Fittonia: Often referred to as nerve plant, Fittonia exhibits distinct veining on its leaves, available in green, pink, and white colors, contributing a vibrant look.

Each of these plants not only adds unique visual appeal but also adapts well to the humidity and light conditions typical of covered terrariums. They contribute to an intricate ecosystem, encouraging microbial growth and maintaining moisture levels.

How Do You Care for Plants in a Covered Terrarium?

To successfully care for plants in a covered terrarium, it’s important to choose the right types of plants and maintain proper environmental conditions.

• Ferns: Ferns thrive in humid environments, making them ideal for covered terrariums. They prefer indirect light and can adapt to the moist conditions, which helps prevent them from drying out.
• Moss: Moss is another excellent choice as it flourishes in high humidity and low light. It can cover the substrate and create a lush, green carpet while also retaining moisture within the terrarium.
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Fittonia is known for its striking foliage and ability to tolerate the humidity of a closed environment. It requires low to medium light and regular moisture, making it well-suited for a covered terrarium.
• Pothos: Pothos plants are hardy and adaptable, thriving in various lighting conditions. They can handle the humidity of a closed terrarium, and their trailing vines can create an appealing aesthetic.
• Peperomia: Peperomia varieties are compact and come in many shapes and colors, making them visually interesting. They prefer indirect light and moderate humidity, which aligns well with the conditions in a covered terrarium.
• Spider Plant: Spider plants are resilient and can flourish in a covered terrarium as long as they have sufficient light. They help purify the air and can produce offsets, adding to the terrarium’s visual appeal.
• Air Plants (Tillandsia): Air plants can be placed in a terrarium but require careful attention to airflow and moisture. They should be misted occasionally, as they do not need soil but thrive in high humidity environments.

What Maintenance Tips Are Essential for Healthy Growth?

To ensure healthy growth of plants in a covered terrarium, several maintenance tips are essential:

• Humidity Management: Maintaining the right humidity level is crucial for tropical plants that thrive in a covered terrarium. Regularly check for condensation on the glass; if it becomes excessive, remove the lid for a short period to allow moisture to escape.
• Light Conditions: Understand the light requirements of your chosen plants and position the terrarium accordingly. Most covered terrariums need indirect sunlight, as direct sunlight can overheat the environment and lead to plant stress or death.
• Watering Schedule: Establishing a proper watering schedule is vital since the closed environment retains moisture. Check the soil moisture regularly; it’s better to underwater than overwater, as excess water can lead to root rot.
• Pruning and Trimming: Regularly prune plants to prevent overcrowding and maintain airflow within the terrarium. This not only keeps the plants healthy but also encourages new growth and can enhance the overall appearance of the terrarium.
• Soil Quality: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for terrariums to support healthy root development. Periodically check the soil for compaction or nutrient depletion and refresh as necessary to provide adequate nutrition for the plants.
• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for any signs of pests such as aphids or fungus gnats, which can thrive in humid environments. If detected, remove pests manually or use mild organic treatments to prevent infestation without harming the plants.

How Should You Approach Watering and Light Requirements?

When considering the best plants for a covered terrarium, it’s essential to focus on their watering and light requirements.

• Low-light plants: These plants thrive in indirect light, making them ideal for a covered terrarium that may not receive much sunlight.
• High-humidity plants: Plants that naturally flourish in humid environments will do well in a sealed terrarium, where moisture is retained.
• Small or slow-growing plants: Choosing smaller varieties ensures they do not outgrow the confined space of the terrarium too quickly.
• Root-bound tolerant plants: Some plants can handle being slightly root-bound, which is common in terrarium settings due to limited space.
• Fern varieties: Ferns are excellent for covered terrariums as they enjoy humidity and indirect light, fitting perfectly into the ecosystem.

Low-light plants, such as snake plants and pothos, are perfect for covered terrariums as they can survive on filtered light and don’t require direct sun exposure. This makes them resilient options that can thrive in the lower light conditions typical of terrarium interiors.

High-humidity plants like mosses and certain tropical species appreciate the moisture-rich atmosphere of a covered terrarium, which helps them maintain their vibrant appearance and health. These plants often benefit from the condensation that forms inside, creating a miniature ecosystem.

Small or slow-growing plants, such as baby tears or miniature ferns, are ideal for terrariums since their compact size allows them to coexist without overcrowding. This ensures that the terrarium remains visually appealing and that each plant has enough space to grow without competing for resources.

Root-bound tolerant plants, such as succulents, can adapt to the limited soil space in a terrarium, allowing them to thrive even when their roots are somewhat confined. This characteristic is particularly useful as they require less frequent repotting and care.

Ferns, including species like the maidenhair fern and button fern, flourish in the moist environment of a covered terrarium. They not only add lush greenery but also help maintain humidity levels, making them a perfect match for the microclimate created within a glass enclosure.

What Are Some Creative Plant Combinations for a Covered Terrarium?

The best plants for a covered terrarium are those that thrive in humid conditions and can tolerate lower light levels.

• Ferns: Ferns, such as the Boston fern or maidenhair fern, are excellent choices for covered terrariums due to their love for humidity and indirect light. They add a lush, green texture and can create a beautiful, woodland-like atmosphere.
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Fittonia is known for its striking foliage with vibrant vein patterns, making it a colorful addition to any terrarium. It thrives in warm, humid environments and can adapt well to the enclosed space of a covered terrarium.
• Pilea (Chinese Money Plant): Pilea, or Chinese Money Plant, features round, flat leaves that bring a unique aesthetic to terrariums. While it prefers bright indirect light, it can still do well in a covered terrarium as long as there’s sufficient moisture.
• Peperomia: Peperomia comes in various shapes and sizes, with many varieties sporting interesting leaf textures and colors. They are compact, requiring minimal maintenance, and are well-suited for the humid environment of a covered terrarium.
• Succulents: While not typically associated with humidity, some succulents like the Haworthia can adapt to terrarium life. Choose varieties that can tolerate low light; they will thrive in the moisture while adding a unique structure to the arrangement.
• Maranta (Prayer Plant): Maranta is a popular choice due to its beautiful, patterned leaves and low light tolerance. It thrives in humidity and prefers the conditions of a covered terrarium, where it can showcase its dynamic foliage.
• Cryptanthus (Earth Star): Cryptanthus is a type of bromeliad that does well in low-light conditions, making it a perfect candidate for terrariums. Its rosette shape and colorful leaves provide visual interest and can handle the humidity of a closed environment.

How Can You Design a Beautiful Plant Arrangement?

When designing a beautiful plant arrangement for a covered terrarium, it’s essential to choose plants that thrive in a humid environment while also complementing each other aesthetically.

• Ferns: Ferns are excellent choices for covered terrariums due to their love for humidity and indirect light. Varieties like the Boston fern or maidenhair fern add lush greenery and a delicate texture to the arrangement.
• Moss: Moss is a low-maintenance option that brings a soft, vibrant green to the terrarium floor. Its ability to thrive in moisture-rich environments makes it a perfect companion for other plants in a covered setup.
• Peperomia: With its diverse leaf shapes and patterns, peperomia can add visual interest to your terrarium. These small plants are adaptable and can thrive in the humid atmosphere of a covered terrarium, requiring minimal care.
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Known for its colorful veined leaves, fittonia can provide stunning visual contrast within a terrarium. It thrives in humidity and low light, making it an ideal choice for a closed environment.
• Succulents: While many succulents prefer drier conditions, certain varieties like the Haworthia can adapt well in a covered terrarium with good ventilation. Their unique shapes and colors can add a dynamic element to the arrangement.
• Air Plants (Tillandsia): Air plants are unique in that they require no soil and can thrive with just air and moisture. They can be creatively arranged within the terrarium, adding a sculptural aspect while also benefiting from the humidity.
• Spider Plant: Spider plants are hardy and can grow well in a variety of conditions, including the humid environment of a covered terrarium. Their arching leaves and ability to produce ‘pups’ make them an engaging choice for adding height and interest.

What Themes Can You Explore with Your Plant Selections?

When selecting plants for a covered terrarium, various themes can enhance the aesthetic and functionality of your arrangement:

• Rainforest Theme: This theme incorporates lush, tropical plants that thrive in high humidity and warm environments.
• Succulent and Cacti Theme: Featuring drought-resistant plants, this theme focuses on low-maintenance species that require minimal care.
• Zen Garden Theme: Aiming for tranquility, this theme includes plants that promote a sense of calm, often combined with decorative stones or sand.
• Miniature Landscape Theme: This theme creates a small-scale ecosystem, often including diverse plants that mimic a natural environment.
• Seasonal Theme: Changing plants based on the seasons can create a dynamic display, highlighting seasonal colors and growth patterns.

Rainforest Theme: Plants like ferns, mosses, and small bromeliads are ideal for this theme, as they thrive in the humid, shaded conditions of a covered terrarium. These plants not only add lush greenery but also help maintain moisture levels within the terrarium, creating a vibrant, thriving ecosystem.

Succulent and Cacti Theme: This theme is perfect for those who prefer minimal maintenance and dry conditions. Including various types of succulents and cacti allows for an array of shapes and colors while requiring less watering, making it suitable for beginners or busy plant lovers.

Zen Garden Theme: Incorporating plants such as dwarf bamboo, moss, or small ferns, this theme aims to create a peaceful and meditative space. The addition of pebbles, sand, or other decorative elements enhances the serene atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxation or mindfulness practices.

Miniature Landscape Theme: This theme allows for creativity by combining different plant species to replicate a natural setting, such as a forest floor or a rocky cliffside. Using a mix of heights, textures, and colors can create depth and interest, making the terrarium a focal point in any room.

Seasonal Theme: By rotating plants with the changing seasons, you can keep your terrarium fresh and engaging throughout the year. For instance, incorporating flowering plants in spring or fall foliage in autumn allows you to showcase nature’s seasonal beauty, making your terrarium a dynamic, living display.

Related Post:

• Best quality on terrarium tv
• Best reptiles for terrarium
• Best plants for a micro terrarium
• Best plants for a tiny terrarium
• Best live plants for an anole terrarium