Everyone knows that pets are the new children, and plants are the new pets. So what better way to bring life to a fish bowl than to forgo the fish for lush greenery?
Fish bowl terrariums are a fantastic way to revamp glassware, let your creativity run free, and make something that elevates your home.
In this article, I’m going to tell you exactly how.
Let’s get into the swim of things!
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DIY Fish Bowl Terrarium
1. Find a Fish Bowl (Container Options)
The first thing you’ll need is a fish bowl container; duh.
Luckily, they’re pretty easy to find! You can typically find cheap acrylic ones at pet stores and glass ones at homeware stores (and some plant markets). Overall, we much prefer the feel and aesthetic of glass.
Failing that, Etsy is a quick and easy solution.
Now, seeing as fish bowls aren’t traditionally closed containers, they don’t come with lids. You’ll need to grab a lid elsewhere, but we have a few solutions up our sleeve.
- Custom-cut circular acrylic sheets I’ve used acrylic lids time and time again for my projects, and I’m a huge fan. They’re inexpensive and look seamless. You can find them here on Etsy.
- Cork lids. Etsy is probably best here too, but you can’t always find them close enough in size to be a snug fit.
- And if you’re ever in a pinch, Saran Wrap works in the short term.
2. The Build – Key Terrarium Layers
Once you have your glass container sorted – and you’ve given it a clean – it’s time to assemble your creation.
Start by creating a drainage layer, which will protect your plants’ roots from excess water by giving the water somewhere to pool. Leca (our recommendation), aquarium gravel, or any decorative pebbles will work great.
Pour in around an inch in depth.
While it might seem fine, potting soil doesn’t drain well enough or resist compaction, so it’s no good in a terrarium. You can make your substrate mix or grab a pre-mixed bag to make your life easier.
👉 Grab a bag of our tropical terrarium mix here.
Pour in enough to cover your plants’ roots comfortably.
I’d recommend a layer of around 4+ inches to get a healthy depth. In addition, we typically slope our substrate towards the back (as it creates visual depth and actual depth for bigger plants).
Next, this is a good time to add in any large hardscape items that might serve as structural elements (such as stones or driftwood). Pack the substrate around it to keep it secure, and if you like, sculpt or slope the substrate as you see fit.
3. Selecting the Right Plants
Of course, the plants you choose for your build will depend on whether your terrarium is open or closed.
The likes of Peperomia, Pilea, Ferns (in general), and Fittonia are great closed terrarium plants.
We used a bit of a random mix, but they worked together nicely.
- Selaginella Jori
- Raindrop Pepperomia.
- Cushion Moss, Thyme Moss and Hypnum Moss.
- Ficus vine (Ficus quercifolia I think).
Because dry substrate is challenging to plant in, it’s best to give it a spray of water before you dig in.
Create a small depression with a terrarium tool or spoon, place your plants’ roots in and smooth the substrate around. I find it easiest to start with the biggest plants, then small feature plants, followed by moss, and then vines on top.
👉 Shop our Live Terrarium Moss collection.
Keep going until all of your plants and moss are in place.
Add in any additional items, give it a little spray of water (not much – you can always add more later), pop the lid on if it’s a closed build, and marvel at your new creation!
Terrarium Care
Closed terrarium care is all about interpreting the signs.
Generally speaking, these bad boys will take care of themselves. Still, occasionally, if it’s looking extremely dry, you might need to add a few sprays of water, remove any deceased plants or trim back any unruly ones.
It will need bright, indirect light (which means out of direct sunlight).
Finally, it’s well worth adding a culture of springtails too. They’re by far the most effective means to control mold in a terrarium, and they don’t really require any care. A no-brainer, really.
That’s It for Today
I hope you’re finishing this article with a fish bowl terrarium you’re proud of.
Tag us on Instagram and show us!
If you’re ready for your next challenge, why not take on a fish tank terrarium?
Till next time x
Rae.
