6 Key Essential Ingredients In A Terrarium Soil Mix

We at Ecoponics (terrarium workshop singapore) regularly organize terrarium making workshops for both individuals and groups. In this article we will touch on the steps of converting your close terrarium (entirely sealed up with no openings) into an open terrarium.

What is a Soil Mix

A soil mix is the mixture of ingredients that promote aeration, water drainage and nutrients for plant growth. There are various types of soil mixes with varying levels of acidity and alkalinity.

DSC 3170 | Ecoponics Singapore | March, 2024

Source: Open terrarium by Ecoponics

General Ingredients in Soil Mixes (Various Ratios)

  1. Peat: Sphagnum peat is often used because it retains water and air well and drains freely. It has a ph level of 4.0 and hence is acidic in nature.
  2. Perlite: Perlite are snowy white granular particles that resemble little pieces of styrofoam. It is created when volcanic minerals undergo heat which causes it expand rapidly and explode. It is a light, porous and tough material that does not break down easily. It has a neutral ph level. Perlite provides aeration too while improving the water drainage system in the terrarium.Image result for perlite
    Source: Vermiculite and Perlite 
  3. Fiber: Coconut coir fiber is often used as a substitute to the aforementioned sphagnum peat. Reason being that it does not break down as easily as sphagnum peat. Coconut coir is also used to introduce aeration to potting mixes that can retain a huge amount of moisture.
  4. Compost: Compost used in potting mixes must undergo a heating process. This is crucial for the elimination of pathogens and weed seeds.humus | Ecoponics Singapore | March, 2024
  5. Potting sand: Potting sand does not retain water as well as perlite and coconut coir. But is normally used in potting mixes as a filter.
  6. Vermiculite: Unlike perlite, vermiculite has nutrient content. But it is not as hardy as perlite and will easily compact and lost its water retention abilities if it is handled roughly. Vermiculite does not form a crust and thus allows for young seedlings to emerge freely. Thus it helps foster an environment suitable for seed germination.

IMG 1457 e1453879774857 scaled | Ecoponics Singapore | March, 2024

Interested in designing and making your very own terrarium? We at Ecoponics conduct regular individual and group terrarium workshops for both corporates and schools. Come participate in our terrarium workshops!

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