Indoor gardening has never been more popular, and terrariums are a fantastic way to bring greenery into your home or workspace. These miniature ecosystems can fit almost anywhere — from desks and shelves to coffee tables and windowsills. But when it comes to choosing a terrarium, one key decision can determine the health of your plants: closed vs. open terrariums. Understanding the differences can help you select the right setup for your lifestyle and plant preferences.

Terrarium: A Miniature Indoor Garden

A terrarium is essentially a small garden enclosed in a glass or transparent container. It combines plants, soil, and decorative elements to create a self-contained ecosystem. Terrariums aren’t just beautiful — they also:

• Purify indoor air
• Reduce stress and enhance mood
• Add a refreshing touch of nature to your living or working space

Choosing the right type of terrarium ensures that your plants thrive and your indoor garden stays healthy.

Open Terrariums: A Breath of Fresh Air

What Are Open Terrariums?

Open terrariums are containers without a lid or any form of enclosure. They are exposed to the room’s air, making them ideal for plants that prefer dry conditions.

Best Plants for Open Terrariums

Open terrariums are perfect for succulents, cacti, and air plants. These plants thrive in well-ventilated spaces and don’t require constant moisture.

Pros of Open Terrariums

• Easy to care for and maintain
• Reduced risk of mold or fungus
• Allows for creative displays and decorative arrangements
• Ideal for plants that prefer dry soil

Cons of Open Terrariums

• Plants may dry out faster, requiring more frequent watering
• Not suitable for humidity-loving plants
• Open soil can collect dust more easily

Open terrariums are perfect if you want a low-maintenance, stylish, and modern indoor garden that doesn’t require much attention.

Closed Terrariums: A Mini Rainforest

What Are Closed Terrariums?

Closed terrariums have a lid or a fully enclosed container, which traps moisture and creates a self-sustaining humid environment. This makes them ideal for tropical plants that thrive in high humidity.

Best Plants for Closed Terrariums

Plants that love moisture flourish in closed terrariums, including:

• Ferns
• Mosses
• Miniature tropical plants like Fittonia or Peperomia

Pros of Closed Terrariums

• Creates a self-sustaining ecosystem
• Less frequent watering required
• Ideal for humidity-loving plants
• Reduces water evaporation, making it eco-friendly

Cons of Closed Terrariums

• Requires careful monitoring to prevent mold or fungus
• Overwatering can be an issue
• Needs indirect light; direct sun can overheat the container

Closed terrariums are perfect for anyone who wants a lush, tropical indoor garden with minimal daily maintenance — as long as you’re willing to monitor moisture levels.

Open vs. Closed: Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between open and closed terrariums depends on several factors:

• Plant Type: Succulents and cacti thrive in open terrariums, while mosses and tropical plants prefer closed terrariums.
• Care Level: Open terrariums generally need more frequent watering, whereas closed terrariums require monitoring for humidity and mold.
• Aesthetic Preference: Open terrariums offer a modern, airy look, while closed terrariums create a lush, mini rainforest vibe.
• Location and Light: Open terrariums can tolerate a wider range of light conditions; closed terrariums do best with bright, indirect light.

Tips for a Successful Terrarium

Regardless of the type you choose, keep these tips in mind:

1. Choose the Right Container: Clear glass is ideal for visibility and light penetration.
2. Layer Properly: Add pebbles for drainage, activated charcoal to prevent odor, and soil suitable for your plant type.
3. Water Wisely: Open terrariums need more frequent watering; closed terrariums require very little, just enough to maintain humidity.
4. Monitor Light: Most terrariums thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing closed terrariums in direct sun to prevent overheating.
5. Trim and Maintain: Remove dead leaves, monitor plant growth, and prevent overcrowding to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

Making Long Lasting Terrariums 

Both open and closed terrariums have unique advantages, and the right choice depends on your plants, space, and lifestyle. Open terrariums are perfect for low-maintenance, dry-loving plants, while closed terrariums offer a lush, self-sustaining environment for tropical greenery.

By understanding the differences, you can design a miniature indoor garden that not only enhances your space but also brings a slice of nature into your daily life. Whether you prefer the airy simplicity of an open terrarium or the vibrant, humid world of a closed terrarium, your indoor garden is limited only by your creativity.