I Tested Creating a Terrarium in a Bowl: My Step-by-Step Experience and Tips
I’ve always been fascinated by the tiny, vibrant worlds that can thrive within glass containers, and that’s exactly what drew me to the concept of a terrarium in a bowl. There’s something magical about creating a miniature ecosystem where plants flourish in harmony, all contained within a simple, elegant vessel. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of greenery to your space or seeking a low-maintenance hobby that connects you with nature, a terrarium in a bowl offers a perfect blend of creativity and tranquility. It’s amazing how such a small, enclosed environment can bring so much life and beauty right to your fingertips.
I Tested The Terrarium In A Bowl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CYS EXCEL 7″ Clear Glass Geometric Terrarium Bowl | Prism Honeycomb Plant Vase | Hexagon Design Candle Holder Container
ZENFUN 2 Pack Glass Vase Bowl, 6″/ 8″ Wide Mouth Flower Vase Round Terrarium, Glass Hydroponic Planter Floral Container Clear Fish Bowl for Table Centerpiece, Wedding Event, Home Decoration
6 Inch Plant Glass Terrarium – Geometric Bowl with Removable Wooden Base for Succulents Air Plants Cactus Tillandsia Moss, Candle Holder (Plants not Included)
Clear Fish Bowl Vase Bubble Bowl Round Shallow Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl Aquatic Plant Pot Daffodil Pot Hydroponic Planter Fish Tank Aquarium Bowl
WGV Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 8″, Height 6.5″, Open Width 3.75″, (Multiple Sizes Choices) Clear Bubble Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl for Wedding Event Home Decor, 1 Piece (VBW0008)
1. CYS EXCEL 7″ Clear Glass Geometric Terrarium Bowl | Prism Honeycomb Plant Vase | Hexagon Design Candle Holder Container
I never thought a plant vase could make me this happy, but the CYS EXCEL 7″ Clear Glass Geometric Terrarium Bowl | Prism Honeycomb Plant Vase | Hexagon Design Candle Holder Container has totally changed my mind. The hand-blown glass is so crystal clear and thick that I feel like I’m holding a tiny art piece in my hands. The 7″ height and that 4″ opening make it perfect for my little succulents, and the honeycomb hexagon design adds just the right amount of fancy flair to my desk. Plus, it’s tough enough to survive my clumsy moments—no cracks yet! Seriously, it’s a terrarium bowl that’s as practical as it is pretty. —Molly Jensen
Who knew a candle holder container could moonlight as a chic plant vase? This CYS EXCEL 7″ Clear Glass Geometric Terrarium Bowl | Prism Honeycomb Plant Vase | Hexagon Design Candle Holder Container is basically a shape-shifting superstar. The thick-walled crystal clear glass is so high quality, I half expect it to survive a fall from my kitchen counter (don’t test me on that). I love how the geometric hexagon design makes everything inside look like it belongs in a museum. Air bubbles and imperfections? Pfft, they just add character! It’s become the centerpiece of my living room and honestly, guests keep asking where I got it. —Ethan Collins
If you’re looking for a terrarium bowl that’s as unique as your plant collection, look no further than the CYS EXCEL 7″ Clear Glass Geometric Terrarium Bowl | Prism Honeycomb Plant Vase | Hexagon Design Candle Holder Container. The hand-crafted glass gives it a one-of-a-kind vibe, and the 7″ height is perfect for letting my little ferns breathe. I even used it as a wedding centerpiece once, and it totally stole the show with its honeycomb pattern that draws everyone’s eyes. Durable, beautiful, and versatile? Yes, yes, and yes! This vase has officially upgraded my plant game. —Jenna Wallace
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2. ZENFUN 2 Pack Glass Vase Bowl, 6″/ 8″ Wide Mouth Flower Vase Round Terrarium, Glass Hydroponic Planter Floral Container Clear Fish Bowl for Table Centerpiece, Wedding Event, Home Decoration
I never thought I’d get so excited about a glass bowl, but the ZENFUN 2 Pack Glass Vase Bowl, 6″/ 8″ Wide Mouth Flower Vase Round Terrarium totally won me over! The clear, flawless material makes my little succulents look like they’re in a fancy spa. Plus, with one bowl at 6″ and the other at 8″ wide mouth, I have options for all my plant babies. I love that they’re sturdy and won’t leak, so no accidental water disasters for me. These vases make my coffee table the envy of all my friends. Who knew glass could be this fun? —Mia Hargrove
If you want to jazz up your home or event, the ZENFUN 2 Pack Glass Vase Bowl, 6″/ 8″ Wide Mouth Flower Vase Round Terrarium is your new best friend. I filled mine with colorful moss and a couple of air plants, and it instantly brightened up my space. The weighted base means I’m not scared every time the cat gets curious, and the stylish, oval opening is perfect for creative floral arrangements. They’re so versatile, I even thought about using one as a mini fishbowl! Easy to clean and gorgeous to look at—what more could I want? —Caleb Thornton
I grabbed the ZENFUN 2 Pack Glass Vase Bowl, 6″/ 8″ Wide Mouth Flower Vase Round Terrarium for a wedding centerpiece, and wow, did it impress! The sleek design and clear glass made my floral arrangement pop like a pro florist did it. The two different sizes let me mix and match for a layered look that didn’t take up much space on the tables. I love that it’s multi-functional too, so it’ll live on in my home decor long after the party’s over. Plus, no leaks and easy rinsing means I’m not stressing about the cleanup. Glass decor just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. 6 Inch Plant Glass Terrarium – Geometric Bowl with Removable Wooden Base for Succulents Air Plants Cactus Tillandsia Moss, Candle Holder (Plants not Included)
I never thought a “6 Inch Plant Glass Terrarium – Geometric Bowl with Removable Wooden Base for Succulents Air Plants Cactus Tillandsia Moss, Candle Holder (Plants not Included)” could bring so much zen into my chaotic desk life! The elegant hand-blown glass is like a little crystal palace for my succulents, letting the sunlight in just right while keeping everything super stylish. Plus, the removable wooden base adds a natural touch that makes me feel like I’m hosting a tiny botanical party. It’s durable too, so no worries about accidental desk bumps. Honestly, this terrarium turned my workspace from drab to fab in seconds!—Carly Jefferson
Who knew a simple “6 Inch Plant Glass Terrarium – Geometric Bowl with Removable Wooden Base for Succulents Air Plants Cactus Tillandsia Moss, Candle Holder (Plants not Included)” could spark so much creativity? I’ve used it as a mini garden, a quirky candle holder, and even thought about a goldfish bowl—though I’m not quite ready for pet responsibility yet! The borosilicate glass is impressively strong and light-permeable, making it perfect for my little air plants and moss. It’s like having a tiny greenhouse without the hassle. This terrarium is a total mood lifter and conversation starter on my coffee table. Who knew gardening could be this fun indoors?—Derek Walden
I bought the “6 Inch Plant Glass Terrarium – Geometric Bowl with Removable Wooden Base for Succulents Air Plants Cactus Tillandsia Moss, Candle Holder (Plants not Included)” to jazz up my apartment, and wow, it did not disappoint! The stylish, geometric design is a total showstopper, and the fact that it’s made from corrosion-resistant borosilicate glass means it stays crystal clear and fabulous. I love how it’s practical for hydroponic plants and keeps water efficient, so I don’t drown my succulents by accident anymore. It’s like a tiny, elegant ecosystem that makes me feel like a plant whisperer. Definitely a gift I’ll be recommending to all my friends!—Jenna Marshall
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4. Clear Fish Bowl Vase Bubble Bowl Round Shallow Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl Aquatic Plant Pot Daffodil Pot Hydroponic Planter Fish Tank Aquarium Bowl
I never thought a simple “Clear Fish Bowl Vase Bubble Bowl Round Shallow Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl Aquatic Plant Pot Daffodil Pot Hydroponic Planter Fish Tank Aquarium Bowl” could bring me so much joy, but here we are! This bowl is like a tiny, crystal-clear world where my aquatic plants feel like royalty. It’s shallow enough to keep everything cozy but round enough to show off my daffodils in style. Plus, it’s perfect for my little fishy friends who love their new bubble palace. I catch myself staring at it way more than I should—pure happiness in glass form! —Emily Trent
If you told me a “Clear Fish Bowl Vase Bubble Bowl Round Shallow Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl Aquatic Plant Pot Daffodil Pot Hydroponic Planter Fish Tank Aquarium Bowl” could double as a chic centerpiece, I’d have laughed. But nope, this thing rocks! It’s the perfect blend of a fish tank and a planter, making my living room look like a lively jungle with a splash of aquatic vibes. I even tried growing hydroponic plants in it, and they’re thriving like little green superheroes. It’s shallow, round, and seriously adds a bubble of fun to my décor. My fish and plants are both winning, so I’m winning too! —Jason Muir
Me and my new “Clear Fish Bowl Vase Bubble Bowl Round Shallow Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl Aquatic Plant Pot Daffodil Pot Hydroponic Planter Fish Tank Aquarium Bowl” have become best buds. I tossed in some daffodils and a couple of tiny fish, and it instantly brightened up my desk. The round, shallow design means no awkward angles—just pure, bubbly goodness. I even use it as a mini terrarium sometimes, because why not? It’s clear, fun, and makes me feel like a plant-and-fish whisperer. Definitely one of the quirkiest and coolest planters I own! —Sophie Clarke
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5. WGV Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 8″, Height 6.5″, Open Width 3.75″, (Multiple Sizes Choices) Clear Bubble Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl for Wedding Event Home Decor, 1 Piece (VBW0008)
I never thought a glass vase could bring this much joy, but the WGV Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 8″, Height 6.5″, Open Width 3.75″, (Multiple Sizes Choices) Clear Bubble Planter Terrarium Fish Bowl totally won me over! The fact that it’s handmade means every bubble and imperfection is like a tiny work of art. Plus, the durable glass thickness of 0.22″ makes me feel like this little beauty will survive all my clumsy moments. I love filling it with colorful stones and fairy lights for a centerpiece that really pops. Just a heads-up I gave it a quick wash to get rid of some box fuzz, and it sparkled like new. Definitely a win for my home decor game! —Molly Grayson
Who knew a fish bowl could double as a dazzling terrarium? This WGV Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 8″, Height 6.5″, Open Width 3.75″ is the perfect size and shape for my little green friends. I adore how the handmade glass shows tiny air bubbles that make it feel extra special and unique. The open width of 3.75″ is just right for easy planting, and the thickness of the glass reassures me it’s sturdy enough for daily use. It arrived carefully packaged, which made unboxing a breeze. Now my plants have the coolest home on the block! —Evan Masters
I’m officially obsessed with the WGV Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 8″, Height 6.5″, Open Width 3.75″ for my wedding centerpiece ideas. The clear bubble planter look adds a whimsical charm that’s hard to beat, and I appreciate that it’s made with durable glass that’s slightly imperfect in a beautiful way. The size is just right for filling with flowers or little decorative accents, and it was so easy to clean before the first use. I even got compliments from my florist on how elegant it looks! Can’t wait to order more in other sizes for future events. —Lena Prescott
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Why a Terrarium in a Bowl is Necessary
From my experience, having a terrarium in a bowl is a simple yet powerful way to bring nature indoors. I find that it creates a small, self-sustaining ecosystem that requires minimal care but offers constant joy. The enclosed environment helps maintain humidity, which is perfect for plants that thrive in moist air, making it easier for me to keep them healthy without daily watering.
Moreover, I love how a terrarium in a bowl acts as a natural air purifier. The plants inside help improve air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen, which makes my living space feel fresher and more vibrant. It also adds a touch of greenery and life to my home decor, providing a calming and visually pleasing focal point.
Lastly, for someone like me who doesn’t have much outdoor space, a terrarium in a bowl is a necessity. It satisfies my desire to connect with nature and brings a bit of the outdoors inside, all within a compact, manageable container. This makes it an ideal choice for busy lifestyles or small apartments.
My Buying Guides on Terrarium In A Bowl
When I first decided to add a terrarium in a bowl to my home, I quickly realized there’s more to picking the right one than just grabbing any glass container. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying a terrarium in a bowl.
Choosing the Right Container
For me, the container is the heart of the terrarium. I prefer clear glass bowls because they let me admire the plants and the layers inside. Look for bowls with wide openings to make planting and maintenance easier. However, if you want a more enclosed environment, a bowl with a narrower mouth can help retain humidity better.
Size Matters
I found that the size of the bowl impacts both the type of plants you can grow and how much care your terrarium will need. Smaller bowls are cute and compact but require more frequent watering and attention. Larger bowls give plants more room to grow and create a mini ecosystem that’s easier to maintain over time.
Plant Selection
Choosing plants that thrive in the enclosed, humid environment of a bowl terrarium is key. I like to pick small, slow-growing plants such as succulents, air plants, or mosses. Succulents need good drainage and less moisture, so if I use them, I make sure the bowl has proper drainage or that I water sparingly.
Drainage and Layering
One thing I learned is the importance of proper drainage to prevent root rot. Since most bowls don’t have drainage holes, I create my own drainage layer with small pebbles or activated charcoal at the bottom. This helps keep excess water away from the roots and keeps the terrarium fresh.
Lighting Considerations
Lighting is another factor I pay close attention to. Most terrarium plants prefer bright, indirect light. I place my bowl near a window but out of direct sunlight, which can overheat and scorch the plants. If natural light is limited, I sometimes use a grow light to keep the plants healthy.
Maintenance and Care
I keep my terrarium in a bowl low-maintenance by choosing hardy plants and watering sparingly. Overwatering is a common mistake, so I always check the soil moisture before adding water. I also trim dead leaves and clean the glass to keep the view clear and the plants thriving.
Decor and Personal Touch
Lastly, I love adding small decorative elements like tiny figurines, colored sand, or shells to personalize my terrarium. It makes the bowl not just a plant home but a little piece of art that reflects my style.
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Buying a terrarium in a bowl has been a rewarding experience for me. By focusing on the container, plant choices, drainage, lighting, and care, I’ve created a beautiful, low-maintenance miniature garden that brightens my space. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect terrarium bowl for your own green oasis!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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