How to Make a Fish Tank Terrarium

Have you ever looked at an unused fish tank and imagined it transformed into a thriving miniature ecosystem? Whether you’re an experienced plant enthusiast or someone exploring new hobbies, creating a fish tank terrarium can be a rewarding project for everyone.

Well, you’re in luck! With our guide on how to make a fish tank terrarium, you can transform that unused aquarium into a stunning miniature ecosystem. It’s easier than you might think, and the results are simply breathtaking.

Can You Use a Fish Tank as a Terrarium?

Absolutely! Fish tanks make excellent fish tank terrarium, and here’s why:

1. Perfect visibility: The clear glass or acrylic walls of fish tanks offer an unobstructed view of your mini garden from all angles.
2. Variety of sizes: From small desktop tanks to large statement pieces, you can find a fish tank to suit any space.
3. Built for water: Fish tanks are designed to be waterproof, making them ideal for high-humidity terrariums.
4. Readily available: You might already have one at home or can easily find them second-hand.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. There are a few challenges to overcome:

• Lack of drainage holes: Unlike purpose-built terrariums, fish tanks don’t have drainage holes. We’ll show you how to work around this.
• Limited airflow: Closed terrariums can be prone to mold. We’ll teach you how to manage this risk.

Don’t worry, though – with our guide, you’ll be able to navigate these challenges like a pro!

What Are the Different Types of Fish Tank Terrariums?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s explore your options:

1. Closed vs. Open Terrariums
   • Closed terrariums are like mini-greenhouses, perfect for tropical plants that love humidity.
   • Open terrariums allow more airflow, ideal for succulents and cacti.
2. Dry vs. Humid Terrariums
   • Dry terrariums mimic arid environments, great for desert plants.
   • Humid terrariums recreate tropical conditions, perfect for ferns and mosses.
3. Theme-based Terrariums
   • Tropical paradise: Think lush, green, and exotic.
   • Desert oasis: Embrace the beauty of succulents and sand.
   • Woodland wonder: Recreate a miniature forest floor.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to themes – let your imagination run wild!

What Materials Do You Need for a Fish Tank Terrarium?

Let’s gear up! Here’s your shopping list:

1. Fish tank (clean and leak-free)
2. Pebbles or gravel for drainage
3. Activated charcoal
4. Terrarium soil or potting mix
5. Plants
6. Decorative elements (rocks, driftwood, figurines)
7. Long tweezers or tongs
8. Spray bottle for watering

Where to find these? Your local garden center should have most items. For unique decorative elements, try craft stores or online marketplaces.

Cost-wise, you’re looking at anywhere from $30 to $100+, depending on the size of your tank and your choice of plants and decor. Not bad for a stunning piece of living art, right?

How To Create a Proper Drainage Layer?

Now, let’s get our hands dirty! The drainage layer is crucial – it’s like the foundation of a house. Here’s how to nail it:

1. Why it matters: A good drainage layer prevents water from pooling at the bottom, which can lead to root rot and mold.
2. Materials to use:
   • Pebbles or gravel (about 1-2 inches deep)
   • A layer of activated charcoal (helps with odor control and water purification)
3. Layering technique:
   • Start with a layer of pebbles or gravel
   • Add a thin layer of activated charcoal on top
   • Cover with a piece of landscaping fabric to separate it from the soil

Pro tip: Use a funnel or a rolled-up piece of paper to guide the pebbles and charcoal into place without making a mess.

What’s the Best Way to Add Substrate to Your Fish Tank Terrarium?

Time to add the soil! But not just any soil will do:

1. Types of substrate:
   • For tropical terrariums: Use a mix of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite for good moisture retention and drainage.
   • For desert terrariums: A sandy, well-draining cactus mix is your best bet.
2. Proper depth and layering:
   • Add about 2-3 inches of substrate, or more for larger plants.
   • Create depth by sloping the soil from back to front.
3. Soil amendments:
   • Mix in some orchid bark for better aeration.
   • For desert terrariums, add some coarse sand or small pebbles to improve drainage.

Remember, the key is to create an environment that mimics your plants’ natural habitat.

How Do You Choose and Arrange Hardscape Elements?

Here’s where you get to play landscape architect:

1. Types of hardscape:
   • Rocks: From smooth river stones to rugged lava rock
   • Wood: Driftwood, cork bark, or small branches
   • Decorative elements: Crystals, figurines, or miniature structures
2. Aesthetic considerations:
   • Create focal points with larger elements
   • Use the rule of thirds for a visually pleasing arrangement
   • Consider scale – your hardscape shouldn’t overwhelm your plants
3. Functional aspects:
   • Use hardscape to create different levels and microclimates
   • Ensure stability – you don’t want rocks tumbling onto your plants
   • Leave enough space for your plants to grow

Remember, less is often more. Don’t overcrowd your terrarium – let it breathe.

Which Plants Thrive in a Fish Tank Terrarium?

Now for the stars of the show – the plants! Here are some top picks:

1. For tropical terrariums:
   • Fittonia (nerve plant)
   • Peperomia
   • Small ferns (button fern, bird’s nest fern)
   • Mosses
2. For desert terrariums:
   • Small cacti
   • Succulents (echeveria, haworthia, sedum)
   • Air plants (tillandsia)

When arranging your plants:

• Place taller plants at the back and shorter ones in the front
• Group plants with similar care requirements together
• Leave space for growth – your terrarium will evolve over time

Pro tip: Use long tweezers or tongs to place plants without disturbing your carefully arranged layers.

Conclusion

Congratulations! 🎉 You’re now armed with all the knowledge you need to create a stunning fish tank terrarium. Remember, the joy of a terrarium is in watching it grow and change over time. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

We’d love to see your creations! Share photos of your fish tank terrarium on our social media channels. 

And if you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy terrarium making!