Crafting a Cactus Miniature Garden: Insights on the Spiky Setup
Bringing the desert indoors has never been easier, and what could be more Insta-worthy than a cactus terrarium? But beware, not all cacti are suited for these closed containers! Desert plants and tropical conditions don't mix well, leading to a recipe for a premature plant death if you prioritize style over substance.
To ensure your cacti survive and thrive, you must cater to their unique needs. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a successful open cactus terrarium:
Pick the Right Container
You'll want an open container like a shallow bowl or dish, one that can breathe freely to avoid excess humidity. A kitchen cupboard glass bowl should do the trick. Sealed containers and jars are a big no-no, as are deep open-topped vases or those with narrow openings.
False Bottom Drainage Layer
A drainage layer is crucial to prevent excess water wicking up to the root system. A false bottom helps achieve this by providing a space for the water to drain away. Lava rock or LECA work well as a buffer for the drainage layer. A mesh is also highly recommended to prevent any mishaps.
Cactus Terrarium Soil
A regular substrate won't cut it here. Cacti require well-draining soil with good aeration to prevent root rot. There are two main types of cactus mixes: grit-only and gritty soil-based mixes. The grit-only mix is made primarily of volcanic rocks and clay pebbles, which provide optimal root aeration but require more frequent watering. The gritty soil-based mix has a higher percentage of perlite rocks, sand, pumice, or orchid bark chunks for better drainage and water retention. Always choose a cactus-specific mix.
Suitable Terrarium Cactus Plants
Though there's no distinct list of terrarium-suitable cacti species, you can safely pair cacti together since they share similar care requirements. Small cacti like the Rainbow Pincushion, Cinnamon Cactus, Peanut Cactus, Thimble Mammillaria, and Domino Cactus are great options for smaller terrariums. Don't be afraid to mix in other arid plants such as a cheeky succulent for added visual interest.
Cactus Terrarium DIY Tips
Ready to design your desert oasis? Here are some of our top tips:
- Use a piece of hardscape to add texture and a natural element to your design.
- Sculpt the substrate rather than keeping it flat for a more dynamic landscape.
- Opt for an odd number of plants to avoid an odd-looking arrangement.
- Sprinkle some sand or orchid bark on any exposed substrate for an added pop.
- Draw attention to different colored cacti for a visual spectacle.
Cactus Terrarium Care
Caring for a cactus terrarium is quite straightforward compared to its tropical counterparts, but it does require a different approach to watering. Cacti like regular watering, as long as it drains and evaporates quickly, as it would in the desert. Water sparingly, a few times per month, and adjust based on humidity and temperatures.
Your open cactus terrarium will thrive with the right setup, substrate, plants, and care routine. Share your cactus terrarium secrets with us in the comments!
- For a successful cactus terrarium, opt for an open container like a shallow bowl or dish to facilitate breathability and prevent excess humidity, avoiding sealed containers and deep open-topped vases.
- A drainage layer is essential to prevent root rot. Use materials such as lava rock, LECA, or a mesh to create a space for water to drain away in your container.
- Instead of regular substrate, use cactus-specific soil mixes with good aeration, such as grit-only or gritty soil-based mixes, to provide optimal root aeration.
- When choosing terrarium cactus plants, select small cacti like the Rainbow Pincushion, Cinnamon Cactus, Peanut Cactus, Thimble Mammillaria, and Domino Cactus, or consider mixing in arid plants for added visual interest.
- Personalize your cactus terrarium with DIY tips, such as adding texture with hardscape, sculpting the substrate, and designing with an odd number of plants. For added flair, consider sprinkling sand or orchid bark on exposed substrate, or drawing attention to different colored cacti.
