How to Create Terrarium Lighting

A terrarium is a transparent (usually glass) enclosure used to keep plants or small animals in an indoor setting. When the terrarium is used for plants, it's important to creating lighting that promotes plant growth and doesn't harm the plants in the terrarium. There are several factors to consider when planning the lighting, including plant type and location.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Place your terrarium in a west or south facing window, if it needs more light, but keep it out of the direct sunlight.

2. Test the lighting in the area where your terrarium is located by picking up a book. If you can see the words in the book without too much effort, the light is sufficient for your terrarium.

3. Observe the way your plants are growing. If they appear "leggy," create a brighter lighting situation. Your goal is to keep the plants out of direct sun, but to put them in a bright area.

4. Add to the lighting already provided if you use an aquarium with a light hood for your terrarium. The light hood will not offer sufficient light.

5. Choose colored bulbs that enhance the overall appearance of your plants when choosing florescent tubes to light your terrarium. A standard cool white tube often makes the plant colors look flat, while tubes with CRI numbers above 90 have a more natural light appearance.

Tips & Warnings

• Set newly planted terrariums in a shaded area close to a northern window for approximately a week. After this, gradually move it to better light, especially if the leaves seem to be losing color.
• Slow the growth of the plants in your terrarium by providing less light for them.