Taipei Wanhua | Plant ecological bottle/water circulation secret + ecological bottle DIY | Planting experience | One person only

The watering frequency for a terrarium depends on its type. Sealed terrariums, due to their internal water cycle, typically do not require additional watering. Simply observe for condensation on the glass. If there are too few water droplets, a light misting may be needed. Open terrariums require regular checks of soil moisture. Water moderately only after the surface soil has dried out, avoiding overwatering.

For a DIY terrarium experience, it's recommended to choose plants that are small, slow-growing, and thrive in moist environments. Examples include various ferns, mosses, Fittonia, or miniature Peperomia. These plants can adapt to the microclimate within the terrarium, helping to maintain the stability and aesthetics of the ecosystem and prevent overly rapid growth that could lead to insufficient space.

A carefully constructed and well-maintained terrarium, with a healthy internal ecosystem balance, can last for several years or even longer. The key is to provide adequate indirect light, maintain a stable ambient temperature, and avoid frequent opening or excessive intervention, allowing the plants and microorganisms to form a complete micro-ecosystem cycle within the enclosed space.

For making terrariums, the most common and recommended container material is transparent glass. Glass offers a clear viewing experience, allows ample light penetration, and is easy to seal, which helps maintain stable humidity and temperature. Choosing a container with a wide opening will make the DIY creation process more convenient.

A terrarium is a miniature closed or semi-closed system. Plants release moisture through transpiration. This water vapor condenses into droplets on the container walls and then falls back to the soil, hydrating the plant roots and forming a cycle. Simultaneously, plants photosynthesize to produce oxygen and break down waste, working with microorganisms to maintain the balance of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nutrients within the bottle.

In addition to water management, daily care for a terrarium also requires attention to light and temperature. The terrarium should be placed in a bright location, avoiding direct sunlight, to provide sufficient indirect light and prevent plants from getting scorched or overheated. Maintaining a stable indoor temperature, avoiding drastic changes, and occasional trimming of overgrowing plants will help keep the terrarium healthy.

To ensure plants in a terrarium coexist harmoniously, it's best to choose species with similar growth habits and environmental needs. For example, select plants that all prefer high humidity, low light, and slow growth. Avoid plants that require a lot of sunlight, grow rapidly, or have extensive root systems, as this could disrupt the terrarium's balance and lead to some plants failing due to competition.

Beginners participating in their first terrarium DIY experience will typically receive detailed guidance from professional instructors. This includes understanding the operating principles of a terrarium, layering soil, selecting plant types, and practical planting techniques, all guided step-by-step. Electronic equipment will also be provided on-site to ensure that even beginners can easily create their own miniature forest landscape, requiring no prior experience.