Whether you went for a lively bioactive or a stunning non-bioactive one, our Care Guide is your go-to resource. Simple tips for everyone to keep your terrarium thriving.
Enjoy your mini oasis! Happy terrarium keeping!
Proper lighting is crucial for the health and vibrancy of your terrarium. Terrariums thrive with indirect sunlight, as direct sun exposure can lead to overheating and damage. While warm white LED shelf lighting can be beneficial, it’s worth noting that natural light is best for your terrarium. Your terrarium can thrive in various locations throughout your home as long as it receives some natural light. This versatility allows you to place your terrarium wherever it best complements your decor and lifestyle.
Watering your terrarium is a task that requires a delicate touch. One of the remarkable features of terrariums is their ability to recycle water, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem with minimal maintenance. You’ll find that in most cases, your terrarium will thrive without frequent watering. If you do notice that your terrarium is lacking some moisture, a light misting with water can be beneficial. However, it’s essential to do so rarely and sparingly. Overwatering can upset the delicate balance within your terrarium, potentially causing issues such as excess condensation or mold growth. Remember that terrariums are designed to be low-maintenance, and their ability to recycle water is one of their key strengths.
Condensation is a natural and intriguing phenomenon in your terrarium. Don’t be alarmed if you notice moisture accumulating on the glass. This is perfectly normal and often occurs when there are temperature fluctuations during the day. You’ll likely observe more condensation in the early morning and late evening when temperatures tend to drop slightly. This condensation is an essential part of the water cycle within your closed terrarium.As the temperature stabilises and the day progresses, the condensation will typically settle, contributing to the overall health of your miniature ecosystem. However, if you find that the glass is frequently foggy, it could be a sign of overwatering. In such cases, a simple solution is to temporarily remove the lid for a few hours, allowing excess moisture to evaporate and restoring the balance in your terrarium.
While terrariums are essentially closed ecosystems, they can benefit from a breath of fresh air now and then. This is especially true if your terrarium is bioactive, including critters. Airflow is crucial for bioactive enclosures to ensure a healthy environment for the inhabitants. Occasionally popping the lid off for about half an hour can help introduce some airflow, which can be beneficial for the overall health of the ecosystem. However, it’s essential to strike a balance as excessive ventilation can lead to increased evaporation, potentially requiring additional misting to maintain the necessary moisture levels. To gauge the moisture level in your terrarium, keep an eye on the soil. Dark black or brown soil usually indicates sufficient moisture, while a lighter brown colour can be a sign of dryness. Monitoring the soil color can help you make informed decisions about when to provide airflow and how to maintain the ideal conditions for your terrarium, especially when it’s bioactive.
Foggy Glass
It’s natural for the glass to fog with changing temperatures, especially during early mornings and nights. Simply open the lid briefly, and better air circulation will clear things up. No need to worry; it’s all part of the terrarium’s charm.
Mould or Mildew
Don’t fret when you spot some mould; it’s typically harmless and tends to disappear on its own. If you’ve chosen to include springtails in your terrarium, they’ll gladly snack on the mold, contributing to your terrarium’s self-sustaining balance.
Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats tend to make appearances during the warmer months. While they are harmless, a bit of plant-safe bug spray or a brief open-air session will kindly encourage them to leave. Remember, patience is key for their departure.
Overgrown Plants
Your green friends may occasionally grow a bit too enthusiastic. A gentle trim or prune will help keep things in balance and ensure harmony in your mini ecosystem.
Change in Plant Colour
If you notice a change in plant colour, it’s simply your terrarium’s way of saying it needs a change of scenery. Find the right light conditions, and it’ll perk right up. And if you ever need a hand, don’t forget that Pico’s Plants offers a ‘refresher’ service. We’re here to make your terrarium experience as hassle-free as possible, maintaining its charm and balance.
Bioactive terrariums offer a unique and captivating experience, with the introduction of tiny inhabitants like Springtails and sometimes Isopods. These critters play a vital role in maintaining the health of your terrarium ecosystem. Springtails and Isopods are nature’s cleanup crew. They’ll diligently consume any mould or decaying plant matter, which are natural occurrences in terrariums, and in return, they help fertilise the soil, keeping your mini-world in balance.
Isopods, in particular, have specific dietary preferences. They thrive when provided with a good amount of dead leaves, bark, or shredded wood to feed on. These items are typically included in every bioactive terrarium, but they can diminish over time. If you notice a decrease in available food sources for your Isopods, it’s a good idea to replenish their supply.
It’s important to remember that Isopods also benefit from a bit of airflow from time to time. Don’t worry; they won’t attempt to escape while the lid is off. They’re more than happy to stay right where they are, continuing their important role in maintaining the health of your bioactive terrarium. Additionally, giving your Isopods a special treat from time to time can be quite entertaining. A tiny piece of fruit or vegetable can serve as a delightful snack for them. If the treat moulds, it becomes the perfect snack for Springtails, creating a dynamic and self-sustaining food web within your bioactive terrarium. If you ever find that your bioactive terrarium needs a refresh or you have questions about its care, feel free to bring it back to Pico’s Plants for a “freshen up” service. We’re here to ensure your terrarium, critters and all, continues to thrive.