DIY Terrarium Tutorial to Freshen Up Your Home
Aug 31, 2026 / Alyssa Duranty
How to Build a DIY Succulent Terrarium
A DIY terrarium is an easy way to add greenery to your home using a glass container, drainage material, well-draining soil, and low-maintenance plants such as succulents. Most succulent terrariums thrive in bright light and need watering only after their soil has dried completely.
Key Takeaways
- Use a glass jar, vase, or open container with enough room for plant roots.
- Add a drainage layer of pebbles or small rocks before adding soil.
- Choose a fast-draining potting mix formulated for succulents or cacti.
- Leave space between plants to support airflow and root growth.
- Place succulent terrariums in bright light; avoid overwatering.
- Finish with decorative sand, sea glass, shells, or stones that will not interfere with plant growth.
What You Need
| Material | Purpose |
| Glass jar or vase | Holds the terrarium and displays the plants |
| Pebbles or small rocks | Creates a drainage layer below the soil |
| Succulent or cactus potting mix | Helps prevent excess moisture around roots |
| Succulents | Provides low-maintenance greenery |
| Sand or decorative stones | Covers soil and adds visual interest |
| Optional décor | Personalizes the finished terrarium |
Step-by-Step DIY Terrarium Tutorial
1. Create a drainage layer
Add approximately one inch of small pebbles or rocks to the bottom of a clean glass container. This layer gives excess water a place to collect below the soil, helping reduce the risk of roots sitting in moisture.
Choose natural pebbles, decorative aquarium stones, or rocks collected locally—provided they are clean and suitable for indoor use.
2. Add well-drained soil
Add enough succulent or cactus potting mix to anchor each plant’s roots, typically about one inch or more depending on the container’s depth. Succulents need soil, while air plants do not; choose materials based on the type of plant you plan to display.
3. Plant the succulents
Remove excess soil from the plants’ roots and place them into the potting mix. Position plants are roughly one inch apart when possible, so they have space to grow and receive airflow.
For a no-maintenance decorative alternative, use faux plants and skip the soil and watering steps.
4. Add sand and décor
Cover exposed soil with a thin layer of decorative sand, if desired. Then add embellishments such as seashells, sea glass, or decorative rocks.
Avoid adding items that retain moisture, block the plants, or make it difficult to check the soil.
5. Place the terrarium in bright light
Most succulents grow best in bright light, and many varieties benefit from several hours of sun each day. Place the terrarium near a sunny window but watch for signs of excessive heat or sun stress, especially in small glass containers.
An open container is generally a better choice for succulents than a sealed terrarium because it allows more airflow and helps moisture evaporate.
Succulent Terrarium Care
| Care Task | Best Practice |
| Light | Provide bright light; gradually introduce plants to direct sun if appropriate for the variety. |
| Watering | Water only when the soil is fully dry. |
| Drainage | Do not let water pool above the rock layer or around the roots. |
| Humidity | Keep succulents in a relatively dry, well-ventilated environment. |
| Maintenance | Remove dead leaves and check plants regularly for signs of rot or pests. |
FAQs
How often should I water a succulent terrarium?
Water only after the soil has dried completely. Watering frequency varies based on light, temperature, container size, and humidity, so a fixed weekly schedule may lead to overwatering.
Can I use a closed terrarium for succulents?
An open terrarium is usually better. Succulents prefer airflow and lower humidity, while closed containers retain moisture.
Do I need rocks at the bottom of a terrarium?
A rock layer can provide space for excess water in containers without drainage holes. However, it does not replace careful watering or well-draining soil.
Can I use regular potting soil?
Use a succulent or cactus mix when possible. These mixes generally drain faster than standard potting soil, which is important for preventing root rot.
What plants work well in a DIY terrarium?
For an open terrarium, consider small succulents, cacti, or air plants. Select plants with similar light and watering needs for the best results.
