The smaller the terrarium, the easier it is to control humidity and keep it clean. Larger containers can hold more moss and make great centerpieces for tables and desks. Plastic is less expensive but overheats easily and can leach chemicals into water sources or even melt if left in direct sunlight. Glass is much easier to clean, but breaks easily. Any terrarium should have a secure top, whether made of glass, plastic, or even cork.
If you choose a tall aquarium, remember that it will be more difficult to clean and decorate.
Colorful ribbon, rope, or twine can be wrapped around terrariums, or tied into bows on top. Colored sand or rocks are fun to layer in the bottom of your container, and make interesting patterns. Quartz or natural rocks are nice touches to moss displays.
Newly sprouted oak tree saplings, ferns, and colorful weed-like sprouts are fun and easy to grow. Oak saplings should be clipped every few months so that they fit inside their container. Grass is not recommended, as it becomes invasive in a very moist, humid environment.
Dirt can become compacted and too moist and doesn’t drain well, so it should be avoided.
One of the best methods is to add a stick or large rock in the middle of your terrarium, then hang the moss on it so it drapes into the container’s floor. Moss should barely press up against the side of the terrarium, don’t pack it too tightly!
Plastic decor is not recommended, as it melts in the sun and does not look natural near real moss and plants.
Alternately, you can pour in a cup of water every other day, sprinkling it around any moss and plants, as well as frequent misting with your spray bottle. You can fill a plastic cup with water and half bury it in the sand to maintain good humidity.
Your terrarium should remain far from where children or pets can gain access to it, a high table, counter, or shelf works well. Do not keep your terrarium in a cold environment, the moss will die.
