Vivarium Troubleshooting

The thickness of gravel used for drainage should depend on the volume of water that needs to be drained. Typically, a layer of gravel should be at least one to two inches deep. For larger drainage areas, up to four inches may be necessary.

Yes, sand can be used as a useful drainage layer in certain applications. It has excellent filtration qualities, allowing water to easily pass through while trapping pollutants and preventing them from getting into the water supply. Sand can also be a great option for planter boxes and other areas with poor drainage.

The thickness of the drainage layer for a terrarium should be 1–2 inches.

The best drainage layer for a terrarium is a layer of well–draining, organic material such as gravel, charcoal, or coarse sand. As an alternative, a false bottom could be used as well, which usually consists of plastic or PVC frames.

No, you do not need activated charcoal for a terrarium. Activated charcoal has some benefits for filtering air and water, but terrariums are already self–contained ecosystems and require little intervention. Instead, focus on creating a comfortable environment and adding the right type of plants.

The ideal terrarium soil depth should be between 2 and 4 inches. This will give your plants the correct amount of moisture and air without compromising their roots.

There are typically 3 layers in a terrarium which usually include a layer of stones or gravel at the bottom (the drainage layer), a layer of soil mix (the substrate layer), and a layer of moss or other decorative elements at the top (the plant layer).

To make your own terrarium soil, you‘ll need equal parts of coco coir soil, sphagnum moss, coarse sand, and vermiculite or perlite. Mix the ingredients together and use them to fill your terrarium. Be sure to firm the soil into place and let it sit overnight so the soil can settle.

For best results, use a soil mixture that is two parts coco coir soil, one part sphagnum moss, and one part perlite or gravel.

Yes, terrariums need soil that drains well and is nutrient–rich. coco coir soil mixed with sand, vermiculite, or perlite is best.

Large rocks should not be put at the bottom of a terrarium. The bottom of a terrarium should be set up on a layer of gravel or any pebble-sized substrate. The larger rocks can be used as a decorative top layer.

No, a drainage layer is not typically needed for a vivarium. However, it may be beneficial to add a layer of water–absorbing material beneath the substrate to prevent excessive moisture buildup.

To prevent root rot in a vivarium, be sure to use a soil mix that drains well and does not retain excess water. Keep the soil lightly moist and water with a spray bottle or dripping system on a regular basis. Monitor the temperature and humidity of the soil and be sure it is not too damp. Prune away any dead or decaying roots or plants to reduce the risk of root rot.

Yes, potting soil can be used in a vivarium, provided it has been sterilized. Before adding the soil to the vivarium, make sure it is thoroughly mixed with organic matter such as leaf litter and  peat moss. In addition, the soil should be treated with an insecticide or fungicide to ensure it is free from diseases and pests.