How To Build A Simple Terrarium With Succulents In A Jar

Creating a terrarium with succulents inside a glass jar is a rewarding way to bring nature indoors. These miniature ecosystems combine beauty, simplicity, and low maintenance, making them ideal for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike. Unlike closed terrariums that thrive in high humidity, succulent terrariums require open containers and excellent drainage to prevent rot. When built correctly, they can last for years with minimal care. This guide walks through every step—from selecting the right jar to choosing compatible plants—so you can create a thriving, self-sustaining display that enhances any space.

Why Succulents Work Well in Terrariums (With Caveats)

Succulents are prized for their resilience, unique textures, and sculptural forms. Their ability to store water in thick leaves makes them naturally drought-tolerant, which aligns well with the infrequent watering needs of a terrarium setup. However, not all terrariums suit succulents. Closed glass containers trap moisture and create humid environments—ideal for ferns or mosses but deadly for most succulents, which originate from arid regions.

The key is to use an open-top jar or vessel that allows airflow and prevents condensation buildup. This mimics the dry, ventilated conditions succulents prefer. Additionally, proper layering of soil and drainage materials helps avoid root rot, the most common cause of failure in succulent terrariums.

“Succulents in terrariums can thrive if you treat them more like potted desert plants than tropical displays. Airflow and lean soil are non-negotiable.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Botanical Horticulturist at Greenhaven Conservatory

Tip: Avoid placing your succulent terrarium in direct sunlight immediately after assembly. Let it acclimate gradually over a few days to prevent leaf burn.

Materials You’ll Need

Gathering the right supplies ensures your terrarium functions properly from day one. Here’s what to prepare before starting:

• Glass container: Choose an open-top jar, vase, or bowl with no lid. Wide-mouth jars work best for easy access during planting.
• Small pebbles or gravel: For drainage—about 1–2 inches depending on container size.
• Activated charcoal: Helps filter impurities and reduce mold risk in enclosed spaces.
• Porous landscape fabric or coffee filter: Prevents soil from mixing with the drainage layer.
• Cactus or succulent potting mix: Fast-draining soil formulated for arid plants. Do not use regular potting soil.
• Miniature succulents: Select 3–5 small varieties with similar light and water needs.
• Tweezers, spoon, or chopsticks: For precise placement of plants and soil.
• Spray bottle: For gentle watering without disturbing the arrangement.

Choosing the Right Container

The shape and size of your jar affect both aesthetics and plant health. Tall, narrow vessels may look elegant but make planting difficult and limit airflow. Opt for short, wide containers with an opening at least 3 inches across. Clear glass is ideal—it allows full visibility and maximum light penetration. Avoid colored or tinted glass, which can distort light and hinder photosynthesis.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Terrarium

Follow this detailed sequence to assemble a healthy, visually balanced succulent terrarium.

1. Clean the jar thoroughly. Wash with warm, soapy water and dry completely. This removes dust and residues that could encourage bacterial growth.
2. Add a drainage layer. Place 1–2 inches of small pebbles or aquarium gravel at the bottom. This prevents water from pooling around roots.
3. Spread a thin charcoal layer. Sprinkle about ½ inch of activated charcoal over the stones. It acts as a natural filter and reduces odor and fungus risk.
4. Insert a barrier. Lay a piece of landscaping fabric or a coffee filter over the charcoal to keep soil from sinking into the lower layers.
5. Add succulent-specific soil. Pour 2–3 inches of cactus mix, mounding slightly in the center to aid drainage. Gently press down to remove air pockets.
6. Plan your layout. Arrange your chosen succulents outside the jar first. Position taller plants toward the back or center, and trailing types near the edges.
7. Plant with care. Use tweezers or a spoon to dig small holes. Remove excess soil from each plant’s roots, place it gently into position, and firm the surrounding soil.
8. Mist lightly after planting. Use a spray bottle to dampen the soil surface—do not soak. Wait 5–7 days before watering again to allow any root damage to heal.
9. Add decorative touches (optional). Top-dress with sand, decorative stones, or tiny figurines for visual interest.

Tip: Always let tap water sit for 24 hours before misting to allow chlorine to evaporate, especially if your local water is heavily treated.

Best Succulents for Jar Terrariums

Not all succulents adapt well to confined spaces. Choose compact, slow-growing species that stay small and tolerate partial shade. Here are five reliable options:

Succulent	Size at Maturity	Light Needs	Special Notes
Echeveria 'Lola'	3–4 inches wide	Bright, indirect light	Rosette form adds elegance; avoid wetting leaves
Haworthia fasciata	3–5 inches tall	Low to medium light	Tolerates lower light; zebra-like stripes add texture
Sedum rubrotinctum ('Pork and Beans')	Spreads up to 6 inches	Full sun to bright indirect	Trailing habit softens edges; red tips in sunlight
Crassula ovata 'Minima'	4–6 inches tall	Bright indirect to direct light	Dwarf jade variety; very low water needs
Graptoveria 'Debbie'	4–5 inches wide	Bright light	Pink-purple hue intensifies with sun exposure

Avoid fast-spreading or large-growing succulents like standard jade plants or agaves—they quickly outgrow small jars and overshadow companions.

Care and Maintenance Tips

A successful terrarium isn’t just about building—it’s about sustaining. Follow these guidelines to keep your succulents vibrant.

Light Requirements

Place your terrarium in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. A south- or east-facing windowsill is ideal. Rotate the jar a quarter turn weekly to ensure even growth and prevent leaning toward the light.

Watering Schedule

Overwatering is the top killer of succulent terrariums. Water only when the soil is completely dry—typically every 2–3 weeks in summer and once a month in winter. Use a dropper or small spout to deliver water directly to the soil, avoiding leaves and stems.

Fertilizing

Fertilizer is rarely needed. If desired, apply a diluted (¼ strength) cactus fertilizer once in early spring. Never fertilize during dormancy or in winter months.

Pruning and Grooming

Trim leggy or overgrown stems with clean scissors to maintain shape. Remove dead leaves promptly to prevent mold. If a plant outgrows the space, transplant it into a larger pot instead of crowding others.

“I’ve seen beautiful succulent terrariums fail within weeks because owners watered them like houseplants. Remember: less is more.” — Rafael Nguyen, Urban Plant Studio Owner

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced gardeners make errors when building succulent terrariums. Learn from these frequent pitfalls:

Do’s	Don’ts
Use open containers with good airflow	Seal the jar with a lid
Choose slow-growing, small succulents	Plant aggressive growers like Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Water sparingly and only at the base	Mist frequently or drench the entire setup
Provide bright, indirect light	Place in dark corners or under fluorescent-only lighting
Inspect regularly for pests or rot	Ignore yellowing leaves or mushy stems

Tip: If you notice condensation forming inside the jar, it’s too humid. Switch to a wider container or leave it uncovered in a ventilated area for a few hours.

Real Example: Sarah’s First Terrarium Journey

Sarah, a graphic designer in Portland, wanted to brighten her home office with greenery but had killed several houseplants due to overwatering. She decided to try a succulent terrarium after reading about their low-maintenance nature. Using a repurposed olive jar with a wide mouth, she layered pebbles, charcoal, and cactus mix, then planted a Haworthia, a tiny Echeveria, and a trailing Sedum.

For the first two weeks, she resisted the urge to water daily. Instead, she checked the soil with her finger and only added moisture when it felt dry an inch below the surface. After six months, her terrarium remained healthy, with the Sedum gently cascading over the edge and the Echeveria producing a small pink bloom. Sarah now rotates her terrarium weekly and credits its success to patience and proper materials.

FAQ

Can I use a sealed jar for succulents?

No. Sealed jars trap humidity, leading to mold and root rot. Succulents need airflow and dry conditions. Only use open containers.

How often should I replace the soil?

Every 2–3 years, refresh the top inch of soil to replenish nutrients and improve texture. Full replacement is rarely needed unless plants show signs of decline.

What if my succulent starts stretching or turning pale?

This indicates insufficient light, known as etiolation. Move the terrarium to a brighter location gradually to avoid sunburn. Trim elongated stems if necessary.

Final Checklist Before You Begin

1. ✔ Choose an open-top, clear glass container
2. ✔ Gather drainage materials: pebbles, charcoal, and fabric liner
<3>✔ Use cactus/succulent potting mix (not regular soil)
3. ✔ Select 3–5 compatible, slow-growing succulents
4. ✔ Prepare tools: spoon, tweezers, spray bottle
5. ✔ Set up in a bright location with indirect sunlight
6. ✔ Commit to infrequent watering—only when soil is dry

Start Building Today

Building a simple terrarium with succulents in a jar blends creativity with horticulture. With attention to drainage, airflow, and plant selection, you can craft a living centerpiece that thrives on neglect. Whether you’re gifting it, displaying it on a desk, or adding it to a shelfscape, this project connects you to nature in a meaningful, sustainable way. Gather your materials, follow the steps, and enjoy the quiet joy of watching your tiny desert garden flourish—one careful drop of water at a time.

💬 Have you built a succulent terrarium? Share your experience, challenges, or favorite plant combos in the comments below!