Tiny Worlds in Balance

All day (while materials last), marissa yi

A terrarium is a sealed glass garden, a living, self-contained, and self-sustaining ecosystem. If it’s set up right, the plants recycle water, air, and nutrients inside the jar, so it can keep thriving without you ever needing to water it again.

Join us in making our own miniature worlds in jars, a hands-on way to see how an ecosystem works, the water cycle, and plant care. It’s a beautiful reminder to spend time outside in nature, and that balance and care make life possible in a jar, a neighborhood, or the whole planet.

Terrariums combine art and science. You’ll get to take the one you design home, and we’d love to hear back later. Share how yours is doing as we grow these tiny green worlds together.

DID YOU KNOW ABOUT THE HEALTH BENEFITS?

Being close to nature is good for your health. Studies show that just looking at nature for a few seconds can help you focus better. Looking at real plants can also help you manage your emotions.

Spending time in nature can make you happier and give you a greater sense of meaning. It can also improve how you get along with others and reduce stress.

A terrarium can remind you to go outside and enjoy nature. Spending longer periods in nature, such as a full day, can boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, and help children and teens manage emotions. 

ARE TERRARIUMS REALLY SELF-SUSTAINING?

In theory, yes! The plants, soil, microorganisms, and water form a mini water cycle: plants release moisture, which condenses on the container walls, and then drips back into the soil. Light provides energy for photosynthesis, which produces oxygen and food for the plants. The plants (and soil microbes) then release carbon dioxide to keep the cycle going.

If balanced, a sealed terrarium doesn’t need watering or outside inputs. Check out the famous one in the UK that’s been thriving since 1960! But it only works if conditions are right. Too much water, the wrong plants, or not enough light can cause the system to collapse.

 CARING FOR YOUR TERRARIUM

• When you get home, place it in a room that gets sunlight. 

• But don’t put it directly in the sun.

• After a few days, if the glass has never steamed up, you may need to add water, a small amount at a time (1 tablespoon). Too much water will make it rot. 

• A little bit of condensation is good, but if it’s so much that you cannot see the plants, take a paper towel and wipe down the glass; that will remove some excess water.