What is a semi-terrarium?

What is a semi-terrarium?

A semi-terrarium sits somewhere between a closed and an open terrarium. It's not a completely closed ecosystem, but it's also not constantly open. This makes a semi-terrarium flexible and suitable for various plant species.

A semi-terrarium can't be kept closed indefinitely like a fully enclosed terrarium. After a few months—and sometimes even after a year—you'll need to add water. At the same time, it's not an open terrarium, because you keep it mostly closed to retain moisture longer. This means you'll need to water considerably less often.

With green plants, a semi-terrarium can often remain closed for months or even years without watering. This is because the system largely functions as a closed ecosystem: water evaporates, condenses on the glass, and returns to the soil. If you use succulents or flowering plants in your semi-terrarium, it's important to open the terrarium regularly. This prevents the roots from being in an overly moist environment for too long and reduces the risk of root rot.

Maintenance Tips – Green Plants in a Semi-Terrarium

Green plants in a semi-terrarium require little maintenance, as long as there's a good balance of light, water, and air. Plants like Fittonia, Calathea, ferns, Pilea, and moss thrive in this environment.

You can treat a semi-terrarium with green plants much the same as a closed terrarium. Keep the terrarium closed as much as possible to create a stable microclimate. In that case, watering once every three to four months is usually sufficient.

Water carefully and adjust to the plant's needs:

• If the soil feels dry, give it a small amount of water.

• If the soil is still moist, wait before watering.

• If you see a lot of condensation on all sides of the glass for two days in a row, open the terrarium for one or two days to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

This helps keep the soil healthy and prevents root rot.

Maintenance Tips – Succulents in a Semi-Terrarium

Succulents require different care than green plants, as they are naturally accustomed to dry conditions. Therefore, don't keep a semi-terrarium with succulents completely closed .

Leave the glass open regularly to allow moisture to escape and keep the air dry. In many cases, a semi-terrarium with succulents can even be left open permanently .

Water sparingly:

• Usually once every three to four weeks is sufficient.

• Always check the soil first: it should feel completely dry before watering again.

Because moisture lingers longer in a glass terrarium, too much water increases the risk of root rot.

Maintenance Tips – Flowering Plants in a Semi-Terrarium

Flowering plants require a little more attention than greens or succulents. They need extra energy to produce and maintain flowers.

Place the semi-terrarium in a bright spot , but avoid direct sunlight to prevent burning of the flowers. Humidity is important: a semi-terrarium with flowering plants can remain partially closed, but open it at least three times a week to allow fresh air to circulate. This helps prevent mold.

Water carefully and adjust to the plant's needs:

• If the soil feels dry, give it a small amount of water.

• If the soil is still moist, wait before watering.

Remove wilted flowers and leaves immediately. This allows the plant to use its energy for healthy growth and new blooms.