DIY project: How to make an air plant terrarium

Air plants don't require soil to live, so making a terrarium to display them in is a perfect DIY project. With just a few materials, you can make a beautiful habitat for your air plants that's also unique home decor. Here is a guide for how to make your own air plant terrarium:

What you'll need

• Open glass vessel or terrarium
• Pebbles, sand or aquarium gravel
• Decorative rocks, wood, shells or other accessories
• Your choice of air plants

Which air plant is best?

All air plants are part of the Tillandsia genus but come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. While they all require the same basic care, some are more drought-tolerant than others. If you're a forgetful waterer, choose air plants with silver foliage rather than green. The greener the plant, the quicker it will dry out. The choice of plant is completely up to your preference.

Step by step

1. To start this simple DIY project, clean and dry your chosen container thoroughly. If you opt for a terrarium or vessel with a lid or hatch, leave it open to provide airflow.
2. Carefully pour your base layer into the bottom of the vessel. If your vessel is particularly deep, you can use multiple materials to create a layered effect.
3. Add decorative rocks, wood, shells or other items.
4. Carefully place your air plants in an arrangement you find aesthetically pleasing.
5. Place your terrarium where it will get plenty of bright, indirect light.
6. To keep your air plants alive and looking their best, soak them in water about once per week. Make sure to allow them to dry completely before placing them back into the terrarium.