How to Set Up a Terrarium for Ferns

Setting up a terrarium in your home is a practical way to provide a low-maintenance space for your plants. Terrariums are self-contained gardens that can be either enclosed or open air. The advantage of an enclosed terrarium is that it creates the kind of high-humidity environment that plants best thrive in. When choosing ferns or other plants for your terrarium, be sure to select plants that are relatively small, such as the resurrection fern, that does not outgrow the enclosure.

Appropriate container
Ferns and other assorted plants.
Potting soil
Coarse sand or pebbles
Activated charcoal
Sphagnum moss

Instructions

- 1
  Select a container, such as an aquarium, for your terrarium. Containers can be made from anything you choose, but an aquarium provides an enclosed humid environment, which is perfect for ferns.
- 2
  Pour a layer of sand or pebbles, approximately 1 inch deep, on the bottom of your terrarium. This layer provides drainage for your terrarium.
- 3
  Pour a layer of activated charcoal over the layer of sand. The activated charcoal acts as an air filter in an enclosed environment.
- 4
  Place a layer of sphagnum moss over the charcoal. The moss acts as a barrier to prevent the soil from settling down into the lower layers.
- 5
  Add a layer of soil over the moss. Make the soil deep enough to accommodate the roots of your plants.
- 6
  Plant your ferns and other plants as desired. Take care to arrange them, so they are not touching the side of the terrarium and have enough room between them. f you choose, you can also add ornaments to your terrarium.

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