If you have a love for gardening but live in a space with limited natural light, a terrarium can be the perfect solution to your plant needs. Terrariums are small, enclosed ecosystems that can thrive in low-light conditions, making them ideal for apartments, offices, or any space that lacks direct sunlight.
What is a low light terrarium?
A low light terrarium is a enclosed glass container or vase that is specifically designed to house and display plants that thrive in low light conditions. These terrariums provide a controlled environment for the plants, creating a miniature ecosystem. The glass walls of the terrarium allow for sunlight to enter and create a warm, humid environment perfect for the growth of low light plants.
Low light terrariums are ideal for indoor spaces that do not receive direct sunlight, such as offices, bedrooms, or bathrooms. They can add a touch of greenery and beauty to any space, while requiring minimal care and maintenance.
When creating a low light terrarium, it is crucial to choose the right plants that can thrive in such conditions. Low light plants are adapted to survive in shaded areas and have developed specific characteristics that enable them to photosynthesize with minimal sunlight. These plants have lower light requirements compared to sun-loving plants, making them perfect for a low light terrarium.
Top 3 low light terrarium plants
Pothos
Snake plant
Snake plant, also called Mother-in-law’s tongue, is known for its upright sword-shaped leaves that come in various shades of green. It is a hardy plant that can withstand low light conditions and periods of neglect. Snake plants are also known for their air-purifying properties, making them a popular choice for indoor terrariums.
Dracaena
Dracaena is a genus of tropical plants that are perfect for low light terrariums. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with some species featuring tall, slender leaves and others showcasing broad, colorful foliage. Dracaenas are adaptable plants that can thrive in low light conditions and require minimal care.
Additional low light terrarium plants to consider
In addition to the top three low light terrarium plants mentioned above, there are several other options to consider:
ZZ plant
Peace lily
Spider plant
The spider plant, or Chlorophytum comosum, is a popular choice for low light terrariums. It features arching leaves with white stripes, creating a visually interesting display. Spider plants can tolerate low light conditions and prefer regular watering.
Tips for caring for low light terrarium plants
While low light terrarium plants are generally low maintenance, here are a few tips to ensure their well-being:
- Place the terrarium in an area with indirect sunlight to provide the plants with some light.
- Ensure proper drainage in the terrarium to prevent waterlogging.
- Monitor the humidity levels within the terrarium and provide occasional misting if necessary.
- Regularly remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the overall health and aesthetics of the terrarium.
Growth habits: Another crucial consideration is the growth habit of the plants. In low light terrariums, it is best to choose plants that have a slow or compact growth habit. This will prevent the plants from outgrowing the terrarium too quickly and becoming overcrowded, which can lead to poor air circulation and increased risk of disease.
Tolerance to humidity: Low light terrariums tend to have higher humidity levels due to the limited air circulation. Therefore, it is crucial to choose plants that can tolerate higher levels of humidity without developing diseases or rotting.
Top 3 Low Light Terrarium Plants
A low light terrarium is a perfect option for those who have dim spaces in their homes and still want to enjoy the beauty of indoor plants. These terrariums are designed to thrive in low light conditions, making them ideal for rooms with minimal natural light or even offices with limited access to sunlight.
When creating a low light terrarium, it is crucial to choose the right plants that can thrive in such conditions. Low light plants are typically shade-tolerant, meaning they have adapted to survive in areas with little to no direct sunlight. By selecting the appropriate plants, you can create a thriving ecosystem within your terrarium, adding beauty and greenery to any space.
Here are the top 3 low light terrarium plants to consider:
Pothos
Snake plant
Dracaena
Dracaena is another excellent choice for a low light terrarium. It has long, arching leaves that come in a variety of colors and patterns, adding a touch of vibrancy to your terrarium. Dracaena is known for its air purifying qualities and can tolerate low light conditions, making it a perfect choice for indoor spaces with minimal natural light.
If you’re looking to create a low light terrarium, consider incorporating these top 3 low light plants. They are not only beautiful but also easy to care for and can thrive in dimly lit spaces, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of indoor greenery even in low light conditions.
Best Low Light Terrarium Plants: Pothos
What makes Pothos so great for low light environments is its ability to tolerate a wide range of light levels. Although it prefers bright, indirect light, it can also survive in dimly lit spaces with minimal natural light.
Another benefit of Pothos is its ability to purify the air. It is known for its air-purifying qualities, as it can remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air, making it a great choice for improving indoor air quality.
In terms of propagation, Pothos is an easy plant to propagate. It can be propagated through stem cuttings, which can be rooted in water or directly in the soil. This makes it a great plant for beginners or those looking to expand their collection.
All in all, Pothos is a fantastic low light terrarium plant that offers both visual appeal and air-purifying benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or just starting your terrarium journey, Pothos is a reliable and versatile choice that is sure to thrive in your low light environment.
Snake plant
The snake plant, or Sansevieria, is a popular choice for low light terrariums. It is known for its ability to thrive in environments with minimal sunlight and low levels of humidity, making it an ideal choice for terrariums.
The snake plant has long, upright leaves that are green with yellow markings, giving it a unique and attractive appearance. It is also a hardy plant that requires minimal care, making it perfect for those who are new to terrarium gardening or have a busy lifestyle.
One of the benefits of the snake plant is its ability to purify the air. It has been shown to remove toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the surrounding environment, making it a great choice for indoor spaces.
| Light Requirements | Watering | Soil | Temperature | Care Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low to medium light | Allow soil to dry out between waterings | Well-draining soil | 60-85°F (15-29°C) | Easy |
Caring for the snake plant in a terrarium is relatively easy. It does not require frequent watering and can tolerate periods of neglect. In fact, overwatering is one of the most common mistakes that people make when caring for this plant. It is best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Overall, the snake plant is a low light terrarium plant that is both beautiful and easy to care for. Its unique appearance and ability to purify the air make it a great choice for terrarium enthusiasts of all levels.
The Benefits of Dracaena for Low Light Terrarium Plants
- Low light tolerance: Dracaena is known for its ability to survive and grow in low light environments. It can tolerate indirect sunlight and even shady areas, making it an ideal choice for a terrarium placed in a dim space.
- Air purification: Like many other indoor plants, Dracaena has air-purifying properties. It helps to remove toxins and impurities from the air, creating a cleaner and healthier environment inside your terrarium.
- Easy maintenance: Dracaena is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require frequent watering or special care. It can tolerate some neglect and is a great choice for beginners or those who don’t have a lot of time to dedicate to plant care.
- Stylish appearance: Dracaena plants have beautiful foliage that adds a touch of elegance to any terrarium. With their long, arching leaves and rich green colors, they can create a striking visual impact and enhance the overall aesthetic of your terrarium.
- Variety of options: There are several species of Dracaena to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a compact variety like Dracaena marginata or a taller option like Dracaena fragrans, you can find a Dracaena plant that suits your terrarium design and personal preferences.
Overall, Dracaena is a fantastic choice for low light terrariums. Its ability to thrive in dim spaces, air-purifying properties, easy maintenance, and stylish appearance make it a popular option among terrarium enthusiasts. Consider adding Dracaena to your terrarium to create a beautiful and healthy low light environment for your plants.
Additional low light terrarium plants to consider
1. ZZ plant
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a popular choice for low light terrariums. It has glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any space. The ZZ plant is also known for its ability to withstand neglect, making it an ideal choice for those who may not have a green thumb.
2. Peace lily
The peace lily (Spathiphyllum) is another great option for low light terrariums. It features large, dark green leaves and elegant white flowers. The peace lily is not only beautiful but also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great choice for improving the air quality in your home or office.
3. Spider plant
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a classic choice for low light terrariums. It has long, arching leaves with white stripes, giving it a unique and striking appearance. The spider plant is also known for its ability to produce baby spider plants, which can be propagated and grown in separate containers.
Remember to regularly monitor the moisture levels in your terrarium and adjust watering accordingly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plants to wilt and decline. It’s also important to clean the glass of your terrarium regularly to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt, which can block light and hinder plant growth.
With the right selection of low light terrarium plants and proper care, you can create a beautiful and thriving mini ecosystem in even the dimmest of spaces. So go ahead and get creative with your terrarium, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility it brings to your home or office.
ZZ Plant: A Low Light Wonder for Terrariums
One of the main reasons why the ZZ plant is perfect for low light environments is its ability to tolerate and even thrive in low light conditions. It has evolved to handle light levels that many other plants would struggle with, making it an ideal choice for terrariums that don’t receive much natural light.
The ZZ plant has striking, glossy green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any terrarium. Its unique foliage is not only visually appealing but also serves a practical purpose. The leaves are succulent-like, meaning they are capable of storing water and nutrients. This adaptation allows the ZZ plant to survive in low light environments where water may not be readily available.
Another advantage of the ZZ plant is its low-maintenance nature. It is known for its ability to withstand neglect and still thrive, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals or those who may not have a green thumb. The ZZ plant requires minimal watering and can tolerate occasional missed waterings, making it a hassle-free plant to care for in a low light terrarium.
Peace Lily: A Low Light Terrarium Plant for Indoor Spaces
The peace lily (Spathiphyllum) is a popular choice for low light terrariums due to its ability to thrive in dimly lit spaces. This elegant plant is known for its lush, dark green foliage and unique white flowers, making it a beautiful addition to any indoor garden.
One of the reasons why the peace lily is an ideal low light terrarium plant is its adaptability to different light conditions. While it can tolerate low light environments, it can also thrive in moderate to bright indirect light. This versatility allows you to place it in various areas of your home, no matter how limited the natural light may be.
The peace lily’s ability to purify the air is another reason why it is a popular choice for indoor terrariums. It has been proven to remove harmful toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, making it an excellent choice for improving the air quality in your living space. This plant can also add much-needed moisture to dry indoor environments, making it beneficial for those with respiratory conditions or dry skin.
For optimal growth, consider fertilizing your peace lily once a month during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, and apply it according to the instructions on the packaging. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.
The Spider Plant: A Low Light Terrarium Favorite
Benefits of the Spider Plant in Low Light Terrariums
Featuring long, arching leaves that come in various shades of green, the spider plant is not only visually appealing but also beneficial to have in a low light terrarium. Here are a few reasons why the spider plant is a great choice:
- The spider plant is incredibly adaptable and can thrive in a range of light conditions, making it ideal for low light environments.
- This plant is known for its air purifying abilities, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air, thus improving the overall air quality.
- Spider plants are non-toxic to pets, making them a safe choice for those with furry friends.
Tips for Caring for Spider Plants in Low Light Terrariums
If you’ve decided to add a spider plant to your low light terrarium, here are a few tips to ensure its health and well-being:
- Placement: While spider plants can tolerate low light conditions, they still require some indirect sunlight. Place your terrarium near a window with filtered light or a few feet away from a bright window.
- Watering: Spider plants prefer evenly moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil is consistently damp but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Pruning: Spider plants tend to produce “spiderettes” or small plantlets that hang from the mother plant. These can be propagated and grown into new spider plants. Prune the spiderettes if you prefer to keep a neat appearance.
- Pest Control: While spider plants are generally pest-resistant, they can attract occasional pests such as spider mites or aphids. Inspect the plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly.
Conclusion
The spider plant is an excellent choice for low light terrariums due to its adaptability, air purifying properties, and pet-friendly nature. By providing the right conditions and care, you can enjoy a thriving spider plant in your low light terrarium, adding a touch of greenery and natural beauty to your indoor space.
Tips for caring for low light terrarium plants
Recommended plants:
– Pothos: This plant is well-suited for low light terrariums and is known for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves.
– Dracaena: With its tall, lance-shaped leaves, dracaena is a popular choice for low light environments.
2. Provide proper watering: While low light terrarium plants generally require less water than those in brighter conditions, it’s still important to keep their soil consistently moist. Be sure to water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
3. Avoid overwatering: Overwatering can be harmful to low light terrarium plants, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
4. Monitor humidity: Low light terrariums tend to have higher humidity levels due to the lack of direct sunlight. Monitor the humidity levels in your terrarium and consider using a hygrometer to ensure they stay within the appropriate range for your plants.
5. Avoid direct sunlight: While it may be tempting to place your low light terrarium near a window, direct sunlight can actually harm these plants. Instead, opt for indirect or filtered light to prevent leaf burn.
6. Prune regularly: Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your low light terrarium plants. Remove any dead or dying leaves and trim back overgrown growth to encourage new growth.
7. Fertilize sparingly: Low light terrarium plants have lower nutrient requirements, so it’s best to fertilize them sparingly. Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions carefully to avoid overfertilization.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your low light terrarium plants thrive and bring a touch of greenery to even the dimmest spaces in your home or office.
I’m Lena Adams—a product of an unconventional upbringing in the African wilderness. My father, a daring explorer of African wildlife, sparked my fascination with reptiles, a passion that intertwined with the tragic loss of my mother during an expedition, leaving an indelible mark on my life. Driven to understand the creatures that captivated my parents, I embarked on my journey, sharing insights about reptiles, frogs, and lizards on my website. Through my explorations and conservation efforts, I honour my family’s legacy while seeking connections—to the creatures, nature, and the mother whose presence I yearn to understand.