The classic plant terrarium
Start with a clean glass container or aquarium. Create a drainage system with a one-inch layer of small aquarium rock, followed by a half-inch of ground charcoal. Place a thin layer of Spanish moss on top of the charcoal to keep dirt and rock separated. Add a sterilized soil mix to bring the soil level to one fourth of the terrarium container's height.
Select plants with the same growing requirements. Remove potted dirt from around plant roots and carefully plant, with ground-hovering plants to the front of the terrarium and tall plants to the rear. Water using a spray bottle, spraying the inner walls of the terrarium to remove all dirt. Seal the container to create a tropical environment. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause overheating. Water lightly when the sides of the glass are dry. |  |
Where the pets go
Bark bends and miniature caves create hiding places in reptile terrariums. High shelves, branches, or rock formations give reptiles a better look at the outside world and allow them to get closer to the heat source.
A heat lamp produces radiant heat that warms reptiles and increases air temperature, which is measured by a thermometer. Infrared heat penetrates scales and skin tissue for a healthy pet. A terrarium pump circulates water and powers streams and waterfalls.
 | Semi-aquatic, or amphibian terrariums combine land, swamps, and bodies of water with wood, rock, plants, and ground coverings. Woodland terrariums can house both amphibians and reptiles and are similar to semi-aquatic terrariums, except that water is provided in a bowl. Fog generators simulate cloudy and foggy conditions.
Desert terrariums have an arid or semi-arid environment, enhanced by a rock and bark terrain, cacti, succulent plants, and sand. Natural-looking habitat backdrops create a realistic pet environment. Full-spectrum lighting and a thermal gradient heat source maintain a healthy environment in reptile terrariums. Heat is turned off at night to simulate the desert's evening drop in temperatures. Fog generators simulate early morning dew on desert terrains. |
