Substrate Layers

Use LECA, lava rock, gravel or coarse perlite. This creates a reservoir so roots don't sit in water.

Rule of thumb: deeper container = thicker drainage.

A piece of window screen, landscape fabric or sphagnum moss layer stops soil washing down into the drainage.

Many successful builds skip this in very small jars and rely on careful watering instead.

A light, well-draining mix is critical. Good basic recipe:

• 40% quality houseplant potting soil (peat-free preferred)
• 30% coco coir or fine orchid bark
• 20% perlite or pumice
• 10% horticultural charcoal (optional, helps with smell and bacteria)

For closed tropicals add a little more coir. For open/arid use more grit and less organic.

Moss, leaf litter, small stones, or sand. This looks beautiful and helps stabilise surface moisture.

Live moss is stunning in closed terrariums but needs high consistent humidity.