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Terrarium Care: How To Care for Terrariums with Succulents, Cacti, and Tropical Plants

Terrariums whether created with succulents, cacti, or tropical plants are like tiny living universes. There’s something magical about a self-contained landscape inside a glass vessel, and with proper setup and care, these miniature ecosystems can thrive for years. Terrarium care might seem complicated at first, but with a few simple habits, your little garden will stay happy and healthy.

Below is a breakdown of how to care for terrariums based on the three most common plant types used: succulents, cacti, and tropical plants.

Before You Begin: What Kind of Terrarium Do You Have?

There are two main types of terrariums:

Open Terrariums (Most Common)

These are glass vessels with a wide opening that allows air circulation and easy access for watering and pruning. UG Plants primarily works with open terrariums because they are easier to maintain in warm, humid tropical climates.

Closed Terrariums

These have a lid or very small opening. They trap moisture and create a more self-contained environment. Closed terrariums require more specialized setup and monitoring, and can quickly develop mold in humid climates like Uganda’s. If you’re working with a closed terrarium, look for specialized care instructions before you begin.

How to Care for a Terrarium with Succulents

Succulents have thick leaves that store water, so they thrive in bright spaces and do well in terrariums because they don’t need frequent watering. Many succulent varieties stay compact, making them great for small containers.

Light

Most succulents prefer very bright light.
However, avoid placing your terrarium in harsh, concentrated sun through glass, as it can become too hot and scorch the leaves.

Water

Terrariums don’t have drainage holes, so water very sparingly.
Allow the soil to become almost completely dry before watering again.
Use a small watering can or spray bottle to water gently at the base of each plant.
Succulents will show slightly puckered or wrinkled leaves when thirsty—this is your cue to water.

Troubleshooting

Shriveled leaves? Time to water.
Soft, black, or mushy leaves? Too much water—remove damaged plants and adjust your watering schedule.

How to Care for a Terrarium with Tropical Plants

Tropical terrariums behave very differently from succulent ones. Plants like philodendron, ferns, peperomia, and fittonia love humidity and regular moisture. These plants will eventually outgrow their terrarium and may need transplanting after some time.

Light

Most tropical terrarium plants prefer indirect, medium to bright light.
Avoid direct sun, which can burn leaves when magnified through glass.

Water

Allow the top layer of soil—about a centimeter or so—to dry slightly between waterings.
Water gently at the base of each plant.
You may mist the terrarium occasionally to maintain humidity, especially in air-conditioned rooms.

Troubleshooting

Crispy or drooping leaves? Time to water.
Yellowing or mushy stems? Too much moisture—remove damaged plants and reduce watering.

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