How to Set Up Terrariums

A terrarium is a clean container that acts as a habitat or miniature ecosystem, remaining moist even when water is added only occasionally. The size and style of your terrarium will depend on what you wish to raise in it. Many people think of reptiles when they hear the term, but in fact terrariums are commonly used to hold plants as well. There are a few basic guidelines to follow when setting up a terrarium, whatever you choose to put in it. All the supplies can be obtained from your local pet store or nursery.

Things You'll Need

  • Clear container of your desired size, with or without lid
  • Pea gravel
  • Horticulture charcoal
  • Soil or shavings
  • Thermometer
  • UV heat lamp and bulb
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the container thoroughly, making sure no soap or cleanser residue remains. Cover the bottom of the container with pea gravel and cover that layer with horticultural charcoal. This allows the bottom layer to "breathe." Then add a substrate -- cypress mulch, coconut fiber or Repti-bark work well, but remember to research what type is best for the plants or animals you will be putting in your terrarium; for plants, usually just plain soil will be fine.

    • 2

      Place any plants you want in the soil and pack it down around the roots. Even if you will have a reptile living in the terrarium, you may want some live plants in the habitat. Be sure none of the plants are toxic to your reptile.

    • 3

      All reptiles and some plants will need special lighting and heating for their health. The easiest way to achieve this a 100- or 160-watt UV lamp. Lamps with an attached clamp can sometimes be secured to the lip of the terrarium container itself, or to the lid. Place the lamp at one end of the terrarium so the reptile will have a hot spot on one end of the terrarium and a cooler temperature on the other. You should find out what temperatures are ideal for your reptile.

    • 4

      Place the thermometer in the terrarium and record the high and low temperatures for a day or two, to be sure it is appropriate for your animal or plant. Leave the thermometer in so you can keep track of the temperature so you will know if it gets too hot or cold.