Terrariums date back to the mid-19th century and have been popular ever since. These miniature, self-contained ecosystems are perfect for those who love nature but are short on space. Luckily, the trend for terrariums has continued to evolve, and vintage terrariums are a fantastic way to breathe new life into an old decor. Here are ten vintage terrarium ideas to help inspire your next project.
1. Book Terrarium
If you have books lying around that you no longer need, consider using them for a book terrarium. You can combine the greenery with the pages of the book, and it will look fantastic on your bookshelf or coffee table. All you need is a hollowed-out hardcover book, some soil, pebbles, and some miniature plants, like cacti or succulents.
2. Teapot Terrarium
A vintage teapot can be an excellent container for a tiny terrarium. It already has a spout and a handle, making it easy to hang or move around. You can fill it up with some moss, ferns or ivy and use it as an elegant centrepiece. Additionally, the teapot’s lid makes it easy to regulate the humidity levels inside the terrarium.
3. Lantern Terrarium
A lantern terrarium is a gorgeous piece of decor and will add a soft glow to your space. Old-fashioned lanterns are easy to find at flea markets or online shops, so keep your eyes peeled for one that catches your eye. Inside, you can add some river rocks, soil, and a few tiny plants like air plants, ferns, and moss.
4. Glass Jug Terrarium
Glass jugs are commonly found and can be the perfect container for a vintage terrarium. Fill the bottom with some pebbles, add soil, and then decorate it with some colorful plants. You can also add some petite flowers to enhance the beauty of your terrarium.
5. Fishbowl Terrarium
Fishbowls can double as beautiful terrariums, and they are often affordable and easy to find second-hand. Fill the fishbowl with sand, soil, and some plants like small ferns, ivy, or cacti. Finish the look by adding some decorative stones or shells inside.
6. Gumball Machine Terrarium
A vintage gumball machine can make a unique terrarium feature in your home. The terrarium has to be small enough to fit inside the machine. Once inside, fill it with soil and cacti, moss, or air plants. You can place the gumball machine next to other vintage-inspired decor items, such as a record player or vintage typewriter.
7. Vintage Glass Container Terrarium
Vintage glass containers are beautiful, and they can make an elegant home for your terrarium. You can use several small glass containers with different shapes and styles, and fill up each of them with some soil and plants of your choice. This is a great way to add a touch of green to your home while also making it look more vintage.
8. Wardian Case Terrarium
A Wardian case is a type of terrarium, but it’s distinctive because it has a glass case and is designed to be used indoors. Originally, the Wardian case was used to transport plants, and the case could maintain the perfect temperature and humidity levels to keep plants alive. Wardian cases were popular in the mid-19th century, and they are still available today from antique shops.
9. Light Bulb Terrarium
Upcycle your old light bulbs and turn them into a miniature garden. You can quickly turn light bulbs into terrariums by removing the electrical components and carefully filling them with some moss and tiny plants of your choice.
10. Vintage Trophy Terrarium
Vintage trophies make fantastic terrarium vessels, especially if you love indoor plants and sports. You can fill the trophies with some soil and cacti and place them in a prominent spot in your home. This is a lovely option for a child’s room or home office.
Concluding Thoughts on Vintage Terrarium Ideas
Vintage terrariums are a fantastic way to bring some greenery into your home while also adding a touch of vintage charm. Whether you choose to display your terrarium on a shelf, a coffee table, or a windowsill, you’ll enjoy the atmospheric presence of a self-contained, miniature garden. Moreover, terrariums are easy to maintain, and they don’t take up much space. The vintage look of many of the containers means that you’ll have a unique item with a bit of a backstory. So, grab a vintage terrarium container, add some soil and a few plants, and enjoy the beauty of an effortless, sustainable, and low-maintenance gardening experience.
FAQs About Vintage Terrarium Ideas
Q1. How do I clean a vintage terrarium?
Ans: You can clean your vintage terrarium by wiping or cleaning the outside surface of the container gently. You should avoid using harsh chemicals.
Q2. What kind of plants are best for a vintage terrarium?
Ans: Cacti and succulents are perfect for a terrarium, as they don’t require too much water and are low maintenance. Additionally, ferns, moss, and ivy are also good choices for a terrarium.
Q3. How often should I water my vintage terrarium?
Ans: The frequency of watering your vintage terrarium will depend on the plant inside and the container’s size. However, a good rule of thumb is to water your terrarium every two to four weeks, depending on how dry the soil feels.
Q4. Can I keep my vintage terrarium outside in direct sunlight?
Ans: Terrariums are designed to be kept indoors and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. This is because the sun can scorch your plants and damage the delicate ecosystem inside the container.
