You don’t need to be a gardening expert to create this decorative object at home. With this precise guide, you will know how to set up a cactus and succulent terrarium in an original container: the aquarium. One thing is certain: your guests will be amazed by these miniature plants!
Did you know that you can make your own plant arrangement in an aquarium? The marriage between succulents and cacti is ideal for giving a summery atmosphere to your interior. Another advantage: you don’t need to have a green thumb to create this terrarium.
Gardening: How to make a terrarium for succulents and cacti in an aquarium?
Having a nice plant at home is a real pleasure for the eyes. The succulent is a green plant that comes in many colors, textures and shapes. The cactus adapts well to drought, which makes it easy to maintain. Only the two plants are not adapted to a closed terrarium that suffocates them . With a few adjustments, you can decorate your home with these beautiful varieties.

Green indoor plants – Source: spm
- This container is ideal for these small plants.
To combine the succulent plant with a mini-cactus, it is recommended to choose an open glass container such as a fairly deep aquarium. It will be necessary to open the container since these indoor plants need air circulation. Thanks to this aquarium, you will be able to create the plant compositions you want.

Low maintenance plants – Source: spm
- This ingredient must accompany these indoor plants
Before placing these hardy plants , start by pouring 5 centimeters of gravel into the aquarium. This will prevent drainage, i.e. excess water that can rot the plants.

Succulent – Source: spm
- Add this for your succulents and cacti.
To prevent these plants from smelling, add an inch of activated charcoal to this decorative container .

Object to decorate the house – Source: spm
- This miniature plant has all its uses in the aquarium
To make this botanical creation last a long time, pour up to 10 centimeters of sphagnum moss over the activated charcoal. These plants act as a substrate for the terrarium and prevent the mineral from reaching the gravel.

Mini plants – Source: spm
- It’s time to plant!
To add an exotic touch to your terrarium, it’s time to plant cacti and succulents. Then add a third of the soil. These indoor plants should not reach the walls of the aquarium . For proper growth, the two plants will need to be separated by several centimetres.

Desert plants – Source: spm
- Be original and creative!
To enhance your indoor plants in a terrarium, let your artistic flair shine through. You can put shells, beads and small trinkets in this container where your cacti and succulents flourish. These decorative pieces should not be vulnerable to humidity.
- A good location is necessary to care for the plants.
To take care of your terrarium, it is essential to maintain your plants properly . For this reason, place the glass container in a place that receives indirect sunlight . Placing the aquarium in a very bright place can cause your plants to turn yellow.

Perennials with shine – Source: spm
- This gesture is necessary after installing your terrarium.
After completing all these steps, the first watering is in order. However, you will have to wait seven days before using your watering can. Moisten the soil when you feel it starting to dry out.
How do I maintain my terrarium?
If it is necessary for this vegetation to benefit from indirect sunlight, it is also recommended to place your aquarium near a source of ventilation. To care for succulents, it will be necessary to have a light hand in the watering can because these succulents can be damaged due to excess water. Watering with purified water is also recommended . These plants are perfect for beginners as they require little maintenance and are resistant. It will simply be necessary to enrich the soil with fertilizer once a year.
As you may have understood, cacti and succulents such as succulents can grow in an aquarium. Making a terrarium does not require any gardening experience, just follow these steps and do not place it in direct sunlight!