By Cindy N | Wealth of Geeks
A recent trend on TikTok showcases people’s self-sustaining terrariums; essentially sealed, independent ecosystems. Some of these terrariums have been sealed for decades and contain all the elements needed for life to thrive.
In theory, a perfectly balanced ecosystem in a terrarium can last indefinitely and with literally zero maintenance. We’ll explore how these micro-ecosystems work and survive and what materials you need to build your own self-sustaining terrarium.
The Terrarium Ecosystem
Britannica defines an ecosystem as the, “complex of living organisms, their physical environment, and all their interrelationships in a particular unit of space.” Plants and organisms’ symbiotic relationship, wherein they work together to maintain survival, is the most critical part of terrarium sustainability. Those fostering terrariums should ensure that cohabitating organisms can sustain and support the ecosystem.
Build a Self-Sustaining Terrarium
Successful terrariums must balance finely tuned energy transfers and life cycles for the sealed environment to thrive. The ecosystem follows the same steps in nature, allowing it to continually clean, feed, and restore itself. Every aspect — plants, microfauna, and even the container — must be meticulously curated to ensure the environment’s success.
Step 1: The Container
The ideal container should be clear and made of either glass or plastic, as colored glass will not let enough light in. The container will need a tightfitting cover or lid, and its sides should be higher than the plants. Terrarium novices should avoid narrow containers, as this shape makes it difficult to plant and adjust the terrarium.
The container must be large enough to allow free gas exchange. CO2 and oxygen must circulate. Too much CO2 can promote decomposition and bacteria growth. Bigger containers are also easier to work with, so those working on their first terrarium build should opt for larger containers.
Step 2: The Plants
When selecting plants, opt for those that grow well but won’t outgrow the container at full maturity. Dwarf varieties and miniature plants are ideal for terrariums. Terrarium plants should be hardy enough to withstand pests and disease, and the foliage should provide enough biomass to sustain natural life cycles.
Incorporate enough plants to support the water cycle. Higher numbers of plants increase biomass, resulting in transpiration or water movement through a plant. With more transpiration comes more condensation that can water plants. Ferns, ivy, vines, and moss are all ideal plants for beginners.
Step 3: Soil
One’s choice of substrate, or surface in which an organism lives, can make or break a terrarium’s ecosystem. Use a soilless mix with low fertility. Regular garden soil is too heavy and will compact over time, starving the plant’s roots of air.
Add charcoal to the soil to increase the organic matter and absorb chemicals and odors. To determine the right amount of soil, look at the largest plant’s root mass and fill it equal to its height. The soil should be damp but not saturated. Plant the smallest plants first.
Step 4: Microfauna
Microfauna or insects are crucial for a terrarium’s balance. Their presence aids in the decomposition process by breaking down and regenerating biomatter.
Insects like springtails and isopods are ideal, as they work on decaying or dead plants and eat any mold that may grow. The insects turn these terrarium toxins into nutrients for plants. These creatures also improve drainage by aerating soil, providing oxygen to plant roots.
Step 5: Light
Consistent and subdued light is critical. Too much heat and light will roast plants. Position terrariums near a window that faces north or south, as it will get plenty of light but not so direct that plants cook.
Grow lights are a practical option for those with limited window space. Plant choice also impacts how much or how little light is needed. Terrarium newbies should consider their terrarium placement plans when selecting plants.
Step 6: Water
Water is the lifeblood of the self-sustaining terrarium. The terrarium’s primary goal is to establish a rain cycle wherein the water evaporated from plants condenses on the glass and then falls back into the soil, watering the plants in perpetuity. Start small — it’s much easier to add more water than it is to remove it. A misting is generally enough. If water droplets form on plant leaves, leave the lid off and allow the leaves to dry before resealing. Condensation should look like a light fog; if it gets too heavy, remove the lid for a few days to let it dry.
The bulk of the work ends once the elements are together and assembled. Nature now takes over, and its job is to cover the maintenance. If designed correctly, the terrarium will be an independent ecosystem wherein plants and animals live and work harmoniously to help each other survive.
This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
