Show your own individuality and originality when you decide on a container for your terrarium.   Look for  “found art” containers – a 10-gallon water bottle, a 1940’s canning jar, or perhaps a discarded desiccator from the science lab.  Or, top an old goldfish bowl with a dainty, clear glass plate and you’re ready to plant!   

Try the craft store where you can find wonderful glass jars with matching lids.  For wonderful gifts or centerpieces use the clear glass craft ornaments. 

And, of course, there are glass aquariums or even professionally built vivariums for creating a larger garden in glass.

5 Tips for Choosing a Container

1.  Avoid etched glass containers or pieces with calcium marks.

2.  Make a decision about what comes first – the plants or the container.   Find out the mature height and leaf size before planting to avoid using a container that’s too small.

3. Check for any signs of fractures in the glass.  Glass can leak if it’s cracked.

4. Clear glass works best.  Plants suffer in heavily tinted glass.

5.  Finding a lid before planting is preferable.  Try glass plates, candle holders, an upside-down vase or casserole lids.  Once you start putting pieces together it’s hard to stop.