A Garden in a Glass Jar: Inside London Terrariums
How an East London studio teaches people to build tiny ecosystems, from choosing the plants to managing condensation and light.
London Terrariums, London, United Kingdom · Words by Sam Crees / London Terrariums · 5 November 2026
Instagram: @londonterrariumsLondon Terrariums is a botanical studio and workshop space in London, United Kingdom. The business began in 2014 as a way to garden without access to a garden. Sam Crees, its Workshop Lead, explains how a terrarium is made, which plants suit the humid conditions and what beginners need to know.
How did London Terrariums begin?
It began from a desire to engage with nature and practice urban gardening without needing access to a traditional outdoor garden.
What will participants create and learn?
At our workshops, experts will guide you as you create your own beautiful botanical creation to take home. We will start with an introduction to the history and science behind Terrariums, followed by a demo. Then, the rest of the session is up to you to get stuck in and make your own! We will end with care tips and send you away with a bag and a care guide to keep your new creation thriving!
Is the workshop suitable for complete beginners?
Yes our workshops are perfect for complete beginners, our lessons start from the bottom up, literally!
What are your favourite plants to use in terrariums?
Ferns are my favourite plants to put inside a terrarium. As extremely anicent plants they use very different properties to other plants in the terrarium and I always find that fascinating to observe. They are also synonious with the popularistaton of terrariums in the victoria era, in a fern and 'arium' boom.
Are there any flowering plants that grow particularly well inside terrariums?
Fittonias will very occasionally flower, anything with delicate flowering leaves doesnt tend to like the humidity the terrarium provides.
What’s one surprising fact about terrariums?
Terrariums were originally used as a transportation tool to help keep plants and bugs alive over long journeys across seas.
What’s the biggest mistake beginners make?
Using the wrong soil!
How long can a terrarium last?
Forever! The oldest is held by David Latimer, and has been going since the 60s whilst completely shut!
What’s your best tip for keeping a terrarium healthy?
NO direct sun. Monitor condensation and dont fuss it too much!
“Using the wrong soil!”
Photographs supplied by Sam Crees for London Terrariums, with full publication and social-use permission confirmed on 28 October 2026. Images courtesy of London Terrariums.