Plastic Bottle Terrarium

Since we are studying evolution of plants and trees, the habitat and the environment, we thought it could be a nice experience to grow our own terrarium. But... WHAT IS A TERRARIUM?

A terrarium is a collection of small plants growing in a transparent, sealed container. A 
terrarium is a closed environment, and can actually be used to illustrate how an 
ecosystem works. Inside a terrarium’s walls, many different natural processes may be 
observed: photosynthesis, respiration, and the water cycle. The water in the terrarium is 
constantly recycled, passing from liquid form to gas and back again. As the moisture in 
the air condenses on the glass walls, it returns to the soil and is absorbed by the plants’ 

roots. 

WE WATCHED THE FOLLOWING VIDEO BEFORE STARTING...

How to create a plastic bottle terrarium...

AND THIS IS HOW WE WORKED...

NOW... HOW CAN WE TAKE CARE OF OUR TERRARIUM?

The two most important factors we must consider when caring for our terrarium are 

sunlight and water. 

Sunlight: Place your terrarium in a bright area with indirect sunlight, such as a 

windowsill. Because the terrarium is a closed system, it can get too hot if it is in direct 

sun and the plants may burn. 

Water: A properly maintained terrarium can go for weeks or months without needing 

water. As the terrarium heats up, water will be pulled up from the rocks and soil to the 

top of the container where it will form a mist and then drip back down to water the plants. 

You should be able to see some mist on the sides of the container as well as some fog 

inside; however, if the sides are constantly wet, and there is so much condensation that 

you cannot see your plants, then you will need to open the top of the container 

temporarily to allow it to dry. 

Pruning: Plants may need to be pruned to keep them small enough to fit the container. 

You can do this with a pair of scissors. 

Fertilizer: You should not add any fertilizer to your terrarium. The goal is to keep the 

plants very small, so you do not want to encourage rapid growth. The plants will get the 

nutrients they need from the soil.