How to Build a Cactus Terrarium

Many cacti are not good choices for those planning a closed terrarium. However, there are several varieties of the species that will work well if planted properly in an open terrarium. Sometimes referred to as a desert garden, cacti planted in the right type of soil and maintained correctly can provide a beautiful alternative for those who don’t like the constant attention required by green plants. On the whole, succulents (cacti) require little attention and can withstand a great deal of light and heat.

Things You'll Need

• Terrarium container
• Cacti
• Potting soil and sand (pre-mixed or mix yourself)
• Gravel (plain or colored)
• Cheese cloth
• Desert creatures, optional

Instructions

1. Choose a terrarium container that is less likely to retain moisture since that could erode the health of cacti.

2. Select cacti plants for the terrarium. Look for plants that will work well together and like the same types of conditions. Some cacti require more water or sun than others. Taking into consideration the type of terrarium being built and where it will be placed, choose plants that will best fit those conditions. Also think about mixing in some plants with color, various sizes and different shape in order to make the cactus terrarium even more beautiful.

3. Decide whether to leave the cacti in the containers in which they were originally planted or transplant them. If the terrarium is large enough, it may be possible to leave the plants in their original containers and just cover them over the top with soil. On the other hand, if transplanting is the preferred option, then it is important to make sure that the soil in the terrarium will allow enough drainage for the cacti.

4. Purchase ready made soil appropriate for cactus gardens or mix the soil yourself in a ratio of 1 part sand to 2 parts potting soil.

5. Put gravel in the bottom of the terrarium to help provide proper drainage so that plant roots won’t drown in too much moisture.

6. Place a layer of cheese cloth over the gravel to help keep the soil in the right kind of environment. Cheese cloth will draw off excess moisture so that cacti roots won’t be overly moisturized.

7. Pour the soil into the terrarium at a depth that will cover the cacti chosen for the desert garden. This will generally be about 2 to 4 inches in depth. In most instances it should not be more than 4 inches.

8. Plant or transplant each cactus into the terrarium, making certain that the hole in which it is placed is deep enough to cover to the bottom of the cactus. When transplanting cacti be careful not to damage the plant’s roots. Space the cacti far enough apart to leave them room to breathe. Do not pack the terrarium too full of plants. Opt instead for a few carefully chosen ones.

9. Use colored sand and/or gravel over the top of the soil to add color and fun.

10. Add some fake desert creatures to accent the newly developed cactus garden.

Tips & Warnings

• Let the cactus garden express your personality and a bit of whimsy.

• Do not over water the cacti or the roots may mold or rot.