Essential Plant Care: Succulents, Air Plants & Terrariums

Discover simple, effective care tips for your favorite indoor plants — from succulents and air plants to stunning terrarium displays.

Terrarium Care

Keeping your terrarium thriving requires a delicate balance of light, moisture, and maintenance. Follow these guidelines:

  1. Light: Place your terrarium in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent overheating and scorching.

  2. Watering: Use a spray bottle to mist the plants lightly every 1-2 weeks. Closed terrariums require less frequent watering than open ones.

  3. Air Circulation: Open the lid occasionally to prevent excess humidity buildup. Monitor for condensation and adjust watering as needed.

  4. Pruning and Cleaning: Trim dead leaves and overgrown plants to maintain visual appeal and prevent overcrowding.

  5. Pest Management: Inspect plants regularly for pests and remove any debris that could harbor insects.

  6. Fertilizing: Feed sparingly — once every 3-4 months with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer.

  7. Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a stable temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep away from heating and cooling vents to prevent temperature fluctuations.

Succulent Care

Succulents are resilient and low-maintenance plants that thrive in various environments. Here’s how to keep them happy and healthy:

  1. Light: Place succulents in bright, indirect sunlight. They require at least 6 hours of light per day to maintain their vibrant colors.

  2. Watering: Water only when the soil is completely dry. Typically, this means once every 1-2 weeks. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Use the "soak and dry" method – thoroughly water the soil, then allow it to drain completely.

  3. Soil: Use well-draining cactus or succulent soil. Avoid regular potting soil as it retains too much moisture.

  4. Temperature: Succulents thrive in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Protect them from extreme cold or heat.

  5. Fertilizing: Feed succulents once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.

  6. Pruning and Propagation: Remove dead leaves and trim overgrown stems to maintain shape. Propagate new plants by planting leaves or stem cuttings.

Air Plant Care

Air plants are unique, soil-free plants that absorb nutrients through their leaves. Follow these care instructions to keep them thriving:

  1. Light: Air plants need bright, indirect light. Place them near a window with filtered sunlight or use fluorescent lighting.

  2. Watering: Soak air plants in room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes once a week. Allow them to dry completely before placing them back in their display to prevent rot.

  3. Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid closed containers and mist regularly if humidity is low.

  4. Temperature: Keep air plants in temperatures ranging from 50-90°F (10-32°C).

  5. Fertilizing: Once a month, use a bromeliad or air plant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply during the soaking process.

  6. Maintenance: Trim dead or brown leaves and remove spent blooms to promote healthy growth.