A compact 10cm terrarium featuring Fittonia (nerve plant) as the focal point. Housed in a small glass container, this arrangement includes a layer of drainage pebbles, activated charcoal, well-draining substrate and a top layer of decorative moss or fine bark. Fittonia’s colorful, veined foliage provides striking contrast in the confined space and thrives in the humid, low-to-medium light conditions of a closed or semi-closed terrarium. Low-maintenance but visually impactful, ideal for desks, bedside tables or small shelves. Care notes: keep soil lightly moist, avoid direct sun, mist occasionally to maintain humidity.

Light

• Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun which scorches leaves.

• Low light tolerated but growth slows; use filtered window light or indirect east/west exposure.

Temperature & Humidity

• Keep 65–80°F (18–27°C). Avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops.

• High humidity is essential — maintain 70%+ inside the closed terrarium. Mist lightly if humidity falls.

Soil & Drainage

• Use a well-draining, airy mix (peat or coco coir + perlite) on top of a layered base: small drainage layer (gravel/small pebbles), activated charcoal, sphagnum moss, then potting mix.

• Charcoal prevents odors and mold in closed setups.

Watering

• Keep substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water sparingly in closed terrariums — condensation on glass indicates adequate moisture.

• For open terrariums, water when the top 1 inch of soil feels slightly dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Airflow & Maintenance

• Occasionally open the terrarium (closed setups) for 10–20 minutes to exchange air and prevent mold.

• Trim leggy growth, remove dead leaves, and control spreading runners to maintain shape.

Feeding

• Fertilize lightly during growing season (spring–summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer at quarter strength every 6–8 weeks, or skip to avoid algae/mold.