How to Choose Soil for Terrariums

Terrariums are a collection of compatible plants housed in clear containers. Some people like to include animals like grasshoppers in their terrariums. In enclosed containers, the terrariums form maintenance free environments for the plants. To establish successful terrariums, you must start by using an appropriate soil.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what type of plants and animals to use. The best plants are rather small plants, though larger plants may be used in larger terrariums. You want to choose plants that fit inside the terrarium after they mature. Plants should grow slowly and be compatible with one another.

2. Look at the natural growing conditions for the plants and try to match the terrarium environment as close as possible. You may want to research the pH levels and drainage qualities of the soil found in the natural environment.

3. Know the acidic level of the soil and the nutrient content. Plants that grow in a tropical setting grow in a more acidic soil than desert plants. Soil rich in nutrients doesn't need additional fertilizer.

4. Get potting soil or cocoa peat soil as a base. Cocoa peat must soak in water for 1 to 1 1/2 hours before you use it. Some stores sell terrarium soil, which blends sand with potting soil.

5. Mix in organic material like peat moss. If you need the soil to drain quickly, mix in pine bark mulch. You may want to add chemicals to adjust the pH level of the soil.

6. Base the ratio of the soil mix by using your information from Steps 2 and 3.