🌿 How to Build Your EK Terrarium Kit
Create your own miniature indoor garden — any size, any shape.
Looking for a relaxing and creative project? Building your own terrarium kit is an easy way to bring nature indoors. Follow these simple steps to create a healthy, long-lasting mini ecosystem with your EK Terrarium Kit.
💧 Pro Tip: Always use distilled or reverse osmosis (R/O) water for crystal-clear glass and happy, thriving plants.
🪴 Step 1 – Clean & Prep Your Terrarium Container
Start with a spotless container to ensure your plants stay healthy.
Rinse your glass terrarium with warm water and dry it thoroughly with a lint-free towel.
🚫 Avoid soap or chemical cleaners — residue can damage delicate plant roots.
🪨 Step 2 – Build the Drainage Layer
Add a layer of small stones or gravel to the bottom of your terrarium. This creates drainage and prevents overwatering and root rot.
Recommended depth:
Small terrarium: ½–1 inch
Medium or large terrarium: 1–2 inches
✔ Keep this layer flat and level — once placed, don’t shake or tip the container.
🧴 Step 3 – Add Activated Charcoal
Next, sprinkle a thin, even layer of activated charcoal over your drainage layer.
Charcoal helps:
Filter out impurities
Prevent mold and odors
Keep your terrarium ecosystem balanced
This step is especially important in closed terrariums.
🌱 Step 4 – Add EK Terrarium Soil & Shape the Landscape
Add your EK Terrarium Soil mix, designed to support moisture control and root growth.
Soil depth guide:
Small terrarium: ½–1 inch
Medium to large: 1½–3 inches
Use your hands or a small tool to create gentle slopes, valleys, or raised mounds. This adds visual interest and helps with creative plant placement.
📐 Step 5 – Choose Your “Front” (Optional)
If your terrarium will be viewed mainly from one side, choose a “front.”
Avoid glass seams or logos here so your layout looks seamless and natural.
✔ Planning your front helps you arrange plants and décor with intention.
🪴 Step 6 – Plant Your Terrarium
Time to add your plants! Use tweezers or your fingers to make small holes in the soil and gently nestle roots into place.
Planting tips:
360° view: Taller plants in the center, smaller ones around the edges.
Front-facing view: Taller plants in the back, shorter ones up front.
✔ Press soil lightly around the base of each plant.
✔ Don’t overcrowd — give plants room to grow and breathe.
🎨 Step 7 – Add Moss, Rocks & Decorations
Now comes the fun part — decorating your terrarium!
Add moss, polished stones, shells, or crystals to personalize your design.
Tips for decorating:
Press moss firmly into the soil so it stays hydrated.
Arrange décor naturally, blending with your plant layout.
Clean decorations in diluted vinegar or warm water before adding.
🚫 Avoid using wood, bark, or outdoor items — they can cause mold inside your terrarium.
💧 Step 8 – Water Your Terrarium Wisely
Proper watering is key to a thriving DIY terrarium.
Use a spray bottle to mist water along the inner glass as you rotate the terrarium.
Allow water to trickle gently into the soil — don’t flood it.
Mist leaves and moss for humidity and hydration.
✔ Soil should appear darkened but not soggy.
✔ A little water in the drainage layer is fine after your first watering.
🛑 Overwatering is the #1 cause of terrarium issues — less is more!
✨ Terrarium Care & Maintenance
Congratulations — your terrarium is alive and growing!
🌞 Light Guide
Closed terrariums: Bright, indirect or filtered light.
Open/succulent terrariums: Bright light or gentle morning sun.
🌱 Ongoing Care Tips
Check once a month for dry soil or yellow leaves.
Mist occasionally to refresh moss and maintain humidity.
Trim plants as needed to keep the mini ecosystem balanced.
💚 EK Terrariums — Bringing Nature Home
Every EK Terrarium Kit is designed for easy setup, low maintenance, and natural beauty.
Build it. Watch it grow. Love your little world.
