Terrariums have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. These miniature, self-sustaining ecosystems are not only visually stunning, but they’re also low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of environments. However, as with any living system, there are certain things that you should avoid putting in a terrarium in order to ensure the health and well-being of the plants and other organisms that call it home.
Understanding the Terrarium Environment
Before we dive into what not to put in a terrarium, it’s essential to understand the unique environment that these miniature ecosystems create. Terrariums are closed systems, meaning that they are sealed and self-sustaining. This can create a humid, tropical environment that is perfect for certain types of plants, but can also be challenging for others.
One of the key things to understand about terrariums is that they are prone to moisture buildup. This can be beneficial for plants that thrive in humid environments, but can be detrimental to those that prefer drier conditions. Additionally, the closed environment of a terrarium can make it difficult for air to circulate, which can lead to fungal growth and other problems.
Plants to Avoid in a Terrarium
While terrariums can be a great way to showcase a variety of plants, there are certain species that are better suited to this type of environment than others. Here are a few plants that you should avoid putting in a terrarium:
- Cacti and Succulents: These plants are designed to thrive in dry, well-draining environments and can quickly rot in the humid conditions of a terrarium.
- Plants that Require Full Sun: Terrariums can be prone to overheating, especially if they are placed in direct sunlight. Plants that require full sun can quickly become scorched and damaged in these conditions.
Materials to Avoid in a Terrarium
In addition to plants, there are also certain materials that you should avoid putting in a terrarium. Here are a few examples:
Metals
Metals can be problematic in a terrarium because they can rust or corrode in the humid environment. This can lead to the release of toxic chemicals that can harm plants and other organisms. Some metals to avoid include:
| Material | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Copper | Can release toxic chemicals that can harm plants and other organisms. |
| Brass | Can corrode and release zinc, which can be toxic to plants. |
Chemically-Treated Materials
Chemically-treated materials can also be problematic in a terrarium. These materials can release toxic chemicals that can harm plants and other organisms, and can also contaminate the soil and water in the terrarium. Some examples of chemically-treated materials to avoid include:
- Pesticide-Treated Wood: This type of wood can release toxic chemicals that can harm plants and other organisms.
- Pressure-Treated Wood: This type of wood can release arsenic and other toxic chemicals that can contaminate the soil and water in the terrarium.
Other Things to Avoid in a Terrarium
In addition to plants and materials, there are also other things that you should avoid putting in a terrarium. Here are a few examples:
Animals
While it can be tempting to add animals to a terrarium, this is generally not a good idea. Animals can quickly overpopulate a terrarium, leading to problems with waste and disease. Additionally, many animals require specialized care and housing that is not compatible with the closed environment of a terrarium.
Fertilizers and Chemicals
Fertilizers and chemicals can be problematic in a terrarium because they can quickly build up to toxic levels in the closed environment. This can harm plants and other organisms, and can also contaminate the soil and water in the terrarium.
Large Decorations
Large decorations can be problematic in a terrarium because they can take up too much space and create problems with air circulation. This can lead to fungal growth and other problems, and can also make it difficult to maintain the terrarium.
Conclusion
Creating a terrarium can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it’s essential to do your research and understand what not to put in a terrarium. By avoiding certain plants, materials, and other things, you can create a healthy and thriving miniature ecosystem that will bring you joy for years to come. Remember to always choose plants and materials that are compatible with the closed environment of a terrarium, and avoid adding animals, fertilizers, and chemicals. With a little care and attention, your terrarium can become a stunning and self-sustaining work of art.
What is the main purpose of a terrarium, and how does it affect what can be put inside?
A terrarium is a self-sustaining, closed ecosystem that requires a delicate balance of moisture, temperature, and light. The main purpose of a terrarium is to create a miniature environment that can thrive with minimal maintenance. This balance is crucial in determining what can be put inside a terrarium, as certain materials or plants can disrupt this balance and cause the ecosystem to fail.
For example, materials that retain too much moisture or release chemicals can alter the terrarium’s environment and harm the plants. Similarly, plants that require high levels of maintenance or have specific lighting requirements may not be suitable for a terrarium. Understanding the purpose and balance of a terrarium is essential in selecting the right materials and plants to include.
Why should I avoid putting weeds in my terrarium?
Weeds can be invasive and outcompete other plants for resources, causing an imbalance in the terrarium’s ecosystem. They can also spread quickly and take over the entire terrarium, making it difficult to control. Additionally, weeds may require more maintenance than other plants, which can disrupt the self-sustaining nature of the terrarium.
Furthermore, weeds can also harbor pests and diseases that can harm other plants in the terrarium. By avoiding weeds and choosing plants that are well-suited for terrariums, you can create a healthy and thriving environment that requires minimal maintenance.
What types of plants should I avoid putting in my terrarium?
Plants that require high levels of maintenance, such as pruning or frequent watering, are not well-suited for terrariums. Plants that prefer full sun or have specific lighting requirements may also not thrive in a terrarium. Additionally, plants that produce large amounts of debris, such as dead leaves or flowers, can create an imbalance in the terrarium’s ecosystem.
Some examples of plants to avoid include cacti and succulents that require high levels of sunlight, and plants that produce large amounts of debris, such as ferns or peace lilies. By choosing plants that are well-suited for terrariums, you can create a thriving and low-maintenance environment.
Why should I avoid putting metal objects in my terrarium?
Metal objects can rust or corrode when exposed to moisture, which can release chemicals into the terrarium’s environment. This can harm plants and disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, metal objects can also conduct heat, which can cause temperature fluctuations in the terrarium.
Furthermore, metal objects can also provide a habitat for pests, such as slugs or snails, which can harm plants in the terrarium. By avoiding metal objects and choosing materials that are safe and non-toxic, you can create a healthy and thriving environment.
What types of materials should I avoid using as a substrate in my terrarium?
Materials that retain too much moisture, such as clay or silt, can cause waterlogging and root rot in plants. Materials that release chemicals, such as treated wood or contaminated soil, can also harm plants and disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.
Some examples of materials to avoid include gravel or sand that can cause drainage problems, and materials that are high in nutrients, such as compost or manure, which can cause an overgrowth of algae. By choosing a well-draining and non-toxic substrate, you can create a healthy and thriving environment for your plants.
Why should I avoid putting carnivorous plants in my terrarium with other plants?
Carnivorous plants, such as Venus flytraps or pitcher plants, require a diet of insects to thrive. In a terrarium with other plants, they may not receive enough insects to survive, which can cause them to decline or die. Additionally, carnivorous plants may also require different growing conditions, such as high levels of humidity or full sun, which can be difficult to replicate in a terrarium.
Furthermore, carnivorous plants can also be sensitive to the chemicals released by other plants, which can harm them. By keeping carnivorous plants separate from other plants, you can provide them with the specific growing conditions they require and ensure their survival.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a terrarium?
One common mistake is overwatering, which can cause waterlogging and root rot in plants. Another mistake is using materials that retain too much moisture or release chemicals, which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, choosing plants that are not well-suited for terrariums can also lead to problems.
By avoiding these common mistakes and doing research on the specific needs of your plants and materials, you can create a thriving and low-maintenance terrarium. It’s also important to monitor your terrarium’s environment and make adjustments as needed to ensure the health and survival of your plants.