Care and Maintenance

How often should I water my terrarium?

Your terrarium will require very little water (if any). We suggest referring to our Care Guide before watering. It outlines how to know when your terrarium needs watering and how best to water.

What sort of water should I use in my terrarium?

We recommend filtered or rainwater in your terrarium to prevent build up of heavy water which can leave marks and affect the health of your plants.

How much light does my terrarium need?

Terrariums are very low light tolerant, but that does not mean no light - they are still plants after all. Bright, in-indirect light is best to keep those plants growing well. See our Care Guide for more tips.

How do I clean inside of my terrarium?

Your terrarium should require very low-levels of cleaning but we do suggest using paper towel or a clean, chemical-free microfiber cloth and just getting in amongst it. We are looking at our own line of terrarium maintenance tools, but until then might we suggest the tools over at Mossy Store if you want some a little more precise.

My terrarium is getting kinda full - what should I do?

First of all congratulations, your terrarium is loving how you’ve been caring for it! Secondly, time to start a bit of sculpting and pruning. Using long scissors, you can strategically remove fronds and branches from the plants. Consider as you go whether light is able to pass through all layers of planting in your terrarium and the over-growth isn’t blocking other plants from enjoying their sunshine. Also consider the scene and story your terrarium is trying to tell. Do you have a favorite angle that you want to frame with some strategic pruning? Is there a way a plant could be shown off better by removing a bit here and a bit there? Is there a sense of scale happening the terrarium or does everything look the same size? Get creative a give it a go, it’ll grow back anyway, right?

Troubleshooting

Why is my moss browning?

Moss can be tricky, but do not fret! It may be a moisture problem. If the framework of the moss looks intact but the colour has browned off, it is probably too dry. If the moss is looking patchy and not a nice, cohesive layer it is probably too wet. Also ensure you terrarium isn’t getting any direct light during the day. Moss is all about that delicate, dappled light.

Why is there so much condensation on the glass?

Condensation is related to air temperature inside the jar. Without getting too technical on you, the air’s capacity to hold water changes depending on its temperature. You should be seeing some levels of condensation at certain times of the day but if the glass is constantly fogged up, it is probably too wet inside the system.

The soil is looking fluffy and mouldy - what’s going on?

Unfortunately, mould is a natural part of any plant care and they love the hot, humid environments of terrariums. Check out out Care Guide for some tips on how to deal with it if and when it arises.

Why are there bugs in my terrarium?

Bugs are a funny one. Depending on what you’re dealing with, they may have just crawled themselves in there when the terrarium was open at some point and are probably harmless to the plants and can go about their business. Some people experience fungus gnats in their terrariums which mean the soil is potentially too wet. Consider leaving the jar open in a well ventilated area, out of direct sun and rain for a day or two and see if that helps. Bear in mind though, these are designed to mimic natural systems, and bugs are a part of that system so when we found a fully grown caterpillar in one the other day, we let him be. We’ll let you know if we end up with a butterfly!

Why are there leaves turning brown?

This is a natural part of plant cycles and may not mean anything. If you’ve had mass die back beyond just the occasional leaf or frond it’s probably a moisture problem. Too dry and too wet can cause problems that look similar so ensure you get to the bottom of what’s going on before watering. Have a look through our Care Guide for some tips to help understand when to water.

There are weird things growing in my terrarium - what should I do?

Do not panic, we’re all about weird things here. If the weird thing you’re referring to is a mushroom or fungus of sorts than that is probably pretty cool and can be left alone. If it’s not something you like the look of, pop on some gloves and just pluck it out. If you’re unsure of what you’re looking at, send us a pic and we’ll do our best to help you out!

Why does it look like my terrarium is dying?

It could very well be dying. But that’s ok, not all help is lost! Send us through some pictures with what is going on and we should be able to diagnose the problem. If you would like additional support, or your terrarium is in need of a spruce up, we do offer a spruce up services in the store. But as always - get in touch if you’re unsure, it is probably a very easy fix!

What is involved in a workshop?

We always start with a bit of a run down on how terrariums work, and what makes them so special. We find if people understand how things work, they are better equipped to make and care for their terrariums. We then dive right in to constructing your little world which is of course the fun bit! You’ll have a chance to lay all the materials, choose the moss and plants you want and decorate how you would like to. We of course laugh a lot, and there isn’t much skill needed so we find everyone - no matter their age or ability - can get in and have a go.

What does the workshop include?

A workshop includes all the materials you need to create your own terrarium ready to go, light refreshments and two hosts. And plants, don’t forget the plants!

Do you host workshops for private groups?

We absolutely do, and it’s one of our favorite ways to host workshops. We can run the workshop in anyway that fits in with your event or special occasion, and tailor the terrariums to a celebration or style. To find out more, don’t hesitate to get in touch!