The Terrarium – An Oasis of Humidity for Plants

A terrarium (plural: terraria or terrariums) is an enclosed or mostly-enclosed growing environment for plants. A terrarium encloses an environment with high humidity and moist soil. Terraria are useful in Arizona’s arid environment where the air is dry indoors and outdoors. Using terraria, it is possible to grow plants with high moisture needs without using a lot of water. This is useful for growing and exhibiting moisture-loving plants. Water-cycling, a microcosm of the Earth’s hydrologic cycle, can be demonstrated in closed terraria. The moist environment is maintained with limited water input, a real advantage in a region concerned with water conservation. Terraria can be designed as attractive displays for unusual specimens, promoting an interest in the diversity of plants.