Open or closed terrarium: discover the differences

A terrarium is a miniature world in glass, also known as a bottle garden. In a terrarium, plants, water, air, and microorganisms live together in a natural cycle. The result is a stylish green eye-catcher for the home or office, often in the urban jungle style. Because terrariums are available in various shapes and sizes, they're also a popular gift idea.

But which type of terrarium is best for you? There are two types: open terrariumsand closed terrariums. In this blog post, we'll explain the differences and provide care tips.

What is an open terrarium ?

An open terrarium is a glass container or vase that isn't completely sealed. There's always an opening through which air and moisture can circulate freely. This keeps the ecosystem in contact with the outside world and makes it more responsive to influences like temperature and light.

Advantages of an open terrarium

• You have more choice in plants, such as flowering or fragrant varieties.

• You can be creative by combining plants and decorations.

Disadvantages of an open terrarium

• It requires more maintenance.

• Regular watering, pruning and removing dead leaves is necessary.

Open terrarium care

• Keep the soil slightly moist, but never too wet. Water sparingly.

• Place the terrarium in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight.

• Remove dead leaves regularly to prevent mold.

• Prune or repot when the plants grow large.

What is aclosed terrarium ?

A closed terrarium, also called an ecosystem, is completely sealed and forms a self-sustaining mini-ecosystem. Water evaporates, condenses on the glass, and drips back into the soil. Plants produce oxygen and absorb CO₂, while microorganisms break down organic matter.

Advantages of a closed ecosystem

• Virtually maintenance-free: watering is no longer necessary.

• The ecosystem can remain in balance virtually.

• Perfect for people without green fingers or who are often away from home.

Disadvantages of a closed ecosystem

• Less choice of plants: only species that require little light and water are suitable.

• No flowering, strongly scented plants or succulents.

Care of a closed ecosystem

• Place it in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight or heat from a radiator.

• Rotate the terrarium occasionally so that all plants receive regular light.

• Condensation is normal. If there's too much moisture, you can remove the cork for a few hours. The tag that came with the terrarium has a date; the terrarium should only be closed on that date.

• Prune your plants sparingly. A little goes a long way to ensure they last longer.

Where can you buy a glass terrarium?

Want to enjoy a mini-jungle in a glass? At The Green Bottle Garden,you can buy ecosystems in all shapes and sizes. Our selection includes both open and closed terrariums.

Each terrarium is handmade in our studio using recycled glass and natural materials. All ecosystems are delivered ready-to-use, so you can immediately enjoy a gift you can give.

Whether you choose a low-maintenance closed ecosystem or a playful open terrarium, you always bring a unique piece of nature into your home.

Conclusion

A terrarium—open or closed—is more than just a plant in a pot: it's a living urban jungle. An open terrarium offers a wider variety of plants but requires a little extra care. A closed ecosystem is almost entirely maintenance-free and ideal for those seeking convenience.

Whichever you choose, a terrarium is always an attractive addition to your interior, a sustainable and unique green gift that provides invisible pleasure.