Tropical Terrariums Made Easy!
A step-by-step guide to building your own indoor jungle
Sure, building any old plant terrarium seems pretty straightforward. Plants + soil = win, right?
But, sadly they often don’t go the distance, and those Pinterest-perfect terrariums tend to go to pot within a couple of weeks because they’re fundamentally flawed (succulents? hell no).
Building a miniature tropical ecosystem that truly thrives takes a little more understanding, planning and skill. That’s exactly what you’re going to learn in The Essential Guide to Tropical Terrariums.
As a former research scientist and now writer (and wholehearted terrarium lover), I’ve distilled thousands of hours of research and experience into this picture-filled guide.
Over 100+ pages (including the free Plants, Resources and Materials Guide), we’ll walk you through the entire process – over the shoulder – as we build a terrarium with you.
Build with confidence and you’ll be able to truly let your creativity run free!
What Are People Saying?
Happy Terrarium Builders!
Sarah Hansberry
After inheriting a large 1776 glass jar that had previously acted as a terrarium, I wanted to start one of my own.
The site and books user-friendly interface are an excellent way of displaying information, and the overall perfect amount of info on making a terrarium from scratch made it so I didn’t need any to spend massive amounts of time searching for other answers.
I can’t enthuse about Dan and his resources enough, he made a daunting challenge so much fun and now I have a terrarium I’m so proud of.
Learn From My Mistakes
Why This Guide?
Remove the Guesswork
You can relax knowing that everything in your project is selected to work harmoniously together for a healthy tropical terrarium.
Save Time
Forget spending hours upon hours researching all the wrong plants and materials. Get a crystal clear picture of everything you need up front.
Save Money
Avoid wasting money on things you don't need, and plants that'll die a day after planting. Build a terrarium first time that goes the distance.
Get the Right Advice – It's a Jungle Out There...
What You'll Learn!
Section #1: Plants
There are so many things to consider when selecting and sourcing plants – here we lay it all out on the table and make it easy for you.
- How to find plants that'll thrive together in the same tropical terrarium conditions.
- How to choose a selection of plants that has all the necessary ingredients for an aesthetic terrarium.
- Find personalized recommendations for plants, backed by extensive experience and research.
- Learn how to take your plant selection to the next level with epiphytic species for 3d planting. ⋆
Section #2: Materials
In this section we’ll cover everything you need in detail; from substrate to lids, we’ll answer every question.
- See the comprehensive breakdown of our recommended substrate mix.
- We tackle the pressing questions of "Do you need a drainage layer?" and "What's up with activated charcoal?"
- Find out which tools are necessary for your unique build, and which tools aren't.
- Discover all the extra requirements for tackling bottle terrariums and other narrow openings. ⋆
Section #3: Preparation
Fail to prepare – Prepare to fail. In this section we’ll cover everything you need to save your terrarium from potential disaster.
- Learn the proper process to clean and decontaminate your plants to prevent unwanted pests and problems.
- Find out what you need to prepare on the day vs beforehand.
- Epiphytic application, plant separation, aquatic moss and more.
Section #4: Build
In this section we take you step-by-step through the construction process to make sure it all comes together right.
- Follow the proper order to constructing your masterpiece.
- How to sculpt your landscape using substrate and hardscape for maximum planting space and a natural look.
- Discover actionable planting tips and expert horticultural design advice.
Section #5: Care
As it’s a closed ecosystem, it’s critical to bring every element of the terrarium care into harmony.
- How to find the ideally lighted spot in your home (and what to do if you don't have one).
- Our technique to accurately identifying watering needs, and how to water exactly the right amount.
- How to carry out routine maintenance to keep your terrarium functioning and looking great.
It's Completely Free!
What About the Plants, Resources & Materials Shopping Guide?
As a separate download included with the guide, you’ll find expanded plant lists to pick your ideal selection from, a full project shopping list so you can be sure to get everything you need, and finally a selection of sourcing options to easily find it all.
You've Got Questions, We've Got answers!
Commonly Asked Questions
The guide is a digital download via Payhip. Upon purchase you’ll immediately be presented with download links, and you’ll receive an email with a link that you can download from at any time. Easy!
The guide is a PDF download.
Absolutely! The PDF format is commonly accepted on most modern devices.
Nope, not yet!
You will be able to use the download link 5 times to get the guide on your various devices. If you have more than that, I’m genuinely curious why you need more than 5 devices…
Drop me an email at dan@terrariumtribe.com and I’ll get you sorted ASAP!
Within the confirmation email and on the Payhip page immediately after purchase. If this doesn’t work for you, reach out and we’ll find a way to get it to you right away!
Refunds are considered at the discretion of terrariumtribe.com, if you have any issues or concerns please reach out.