A terrarium is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for addition to any living space, but it can also be expensive to buy a pre-made one. Don’t worry, though: you can create your own DIY terrarium on a budget! Follow these 14 simple steps to make an affordable terrarium that looks professionally designed.

1. Choose your container: Look for clear glass or plastic containers with lids, such as mason jars, fish tanks, or even large glass cookie jars. Check out thrift stores or dollar stores to find an affordable container.

2. Select your plants: Choose small, easy-to-care-for plants such as air plants (tillandsia), ferns, mosses (java or sheet moss), miniature orchids, or succulents. Consider the needs of the plants when selecting them, ensuring they will thrive together in your terrarium’s environment.

3. Gather materials: In addition to your container and chosen plants, you will need some pebbles or gravel for drainage, activated charcoal to filter the air, potting soil appropriate for the chosen plants, and some small decorative elements like twigs or stones.

4. Create a drainage layer: Start by laying 1-2 inches of pebbles or gravel at the bottom of your container. This will help provide proper drainage and prevent excess moisture from accumulating.

5. Add activated charcoal: Sprinkle a thin layer of activated charcoal on top of the drainage layer. This helps keep the air inside your terrarium fresh and prevents mold growth.

6. Mix potting soil: If your chosen plants require different types of soil, mix the appropriate ratios in a separate container before adding it to your terrarium.

7. Add soil layer: Add 2-3 inches of potting soil on top of the activated charcoal layer. Use a spoon or small shovel for precision and create a small indentation in the soil where you will place your plants.

8. Plant your greens: Carefully remove the plants from their pots, gently loosen the roots, and place them into the indentations you created in the soil.

9. Arrange decorative elements: Now is the time to get creative! Add your chosen decorative elements such as rocks, twigs, or figurines to personalize your terrarium.

10. Fill in gaps: Use a spoon or small brush to fill in any gaps around your plants with additional potting soil. This will help anchor them into place.

11. Mist your new plants: Using a spray bottle filled with water, gently mist your plants to help settle the soil and provide some initial moisture.

12. Seal your terrarium: Place a lid or cover on your container to create an enclosed environment. If your chosen plants don’t require high humidity, leave a small gap for air circulation.

13. Find the perfect spot: Choose a spot indoors that receives bright, indirect light for optimal plant health. Some terrariums can also thrive in artificial light if natural light is limited.

14. Maintenance and care: Regularly check the moisture levels, prune dead leaves, and watch for any signs of pests or diseases. Mist your terrarium as needed, based on the humidity requirements of the plants inside.

By following these 14 steps, you’ll have created an inexpensive yet beautiful terrarium that adds life and color to any space. Enjoy watching your tiny ecosystem flourish and thrive!