Preserved Terrarium vs. Living Terrarium – Which One Is Right for You?
A terrarium is like a little world under glass, it’s charming and self‑contained, thriving for years or even decades when you get the basics right: light, water, airflow. But here’s the catch: you’ve got two different styles to pick from. One is living terrariums, packed with growing plants that change over time. The other is preserved terrariums, where real plants are treated to look fresh, without needing any care.
Below, we'll take a close look at both, with a simple table, reasons to pick each one, things to watch out for, and answers to your burning questions, so you can decide which is best for your space.
What’s the Difference Between Living and Preserved Terrariums?
A living terrarium is like its own little eco‑system. Inside, you’ll find plants like moss, ferns or Fittonia that photosynthesize, breathe, and grow. You’ll need to mist, trim, and open them now and again to stop mold. But do it right, and they can stay alive for years.
On the flip side, a preserved terrarium is basically a botanical snapshot. The moss and foliage are treated (often with glycerin) so they look alive without actually living. No watering, no pruning, just lasting beauty.
Living vs. Preserved: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Living Terrarium | Preserved Terrarium |
|---|---|---|
| Care required | Occasional watering, pruning, airing | None, set up once and enjoy |
| Growth over time | Plants change and develop | Appearance stays the same year-round |
| Pests or mold risk | Can develop without proper care | Very low if kept dry & out of sun |
| Lighting needs | Prefers bright, indirect light | Any indoor light is fine |
| Expected lifespan | Many years with good care | 3–10 years (thanks to preservation) |
| Gift-friendly | Great for plant lovers | Perfect for anyone, no upkeep needed |
How They Stay Fresh
Living terrariums mimic natural cycles. Plants photosynthesize—absorbing CO₂ and releasing oxygen by day and respire at night. Moisture evaporates, condenses, and then returns to the soil, creating a closed water loop. Some systems even include springtails or isopods to help control mold and break down waste.
Preserved terrariums rely on glycerin-infused plant materials. The glycerin replaces the plant’s natural fluids, maintaining suppleness and vibrant color for years. Think of them as botanical art, stunningly lifelike yet entirely static
Which One Should You Choose?
If you love caring for plants and enjoy the transformation as they grow then go for a living terrarium. They change over time and reward that care.
But if you’d rather have a beautiful decoration with no effort, a preserved terrarium is your friend. It gives you that fresh, green look year after year with zero maintenance.
Why We Love Preserved Terrariums
They’re low-maintenance, yet lush and textured. In the right indoor light and humidity, preserved pieces can stay vibrant for five to ten years. No bugs. No trimming. They’re perfect for offices, living rooms or as gifts for people who forget to water plants.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Preserved terrariums won’t clean your air or grow over time. They’re not meant for humid rooms or direct sun, they’ll fade faster there. Some may even have a slight scent due to the preservation process. Just something to be aware of.
Explore Our Tropical Glass Preserved Terrariums
Here’s what we offer:
- Small Dome Terrarium, snap that classic look with a sleek glass dome on cork.
- Large Cloche Terrarium, a modern design meets natural texture.
- Boa Vista Geometric Terrarium, a bold statement piece, great for desks or tables.
All handcrafted in the UK, all preserved and ready to display, no fuss, no follow‑up care.
Deciding between a living or preserved terrarium depends on what you want: a breathing mini-garden or a maintenance‑free art piece. Either way, both bring a touch of green and a bit of joy.
Browse our collection of terrariums and find the one that suits your style. If you have questions about care, starter kits, or want some help picking, just reach out. We’d love to help you bring a little world of green into your life.
FAQs
Do preserved terrariums need water?
Not at all, water will ruin them. They’re made to stay dry.
Can preserved terrariums get mold?
Very unlikely, keep them dry and out of direct sunlight.
How long do preserved terrariums they last?
Expect a few years of good looks, depending on where you place them.
Are preserved terrariums good gifts?
Absolutely. They’re elegant, fuss-free, and lovely to look at.
Can you mix preserved and live terrarium plants?
It’s best to keep them separate as they have opposite needs and don’t play well together.
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