Ted Stumpf
Ted Stumpf, Windermere Napa Valley PropertiesPhone: (707) 246-9825
Email: [email protected]

DIY project for plant lovers: Making an air plant terrarium

by Ted Stumpf 09/18/2022

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.
About the Author
Author

Ted Stumpf

Ted draws energy and joy from building synergetic relationships with his Clients. Ted's nature is graciously gregarious and persevering; he's honest; and he's been dedicated to a substantial list of clientele throughout his 25 years in the hospitality business and almost two years as a REALTOR. His passion is creating a sincere, successful relationship with people.

Ted grew up in a family of Realtors in central Indiana, earned a degree in economics and philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and jumped into all aspects of the restaurant business. His ensuing hospitality career path eventually led him into the Event Management Sales & Service role in hotels and quickly guided him to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and finally to a luxury resort in the Napa Valley, where he, his husband, and their dog have resided for almost a decade now.  

The irony is not lost on Ted that his ‘growth’ journey has culminated in“living happily ever after” in an agricultural area with a small-town feel and sense of community strikingly reminiscent of his youth…and as a REALTOR nonetheless!