DIY Gumball Machine Terrarium
Machine Terrarium (Gumball Machine Planter) – Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Jar
Remove the lid and thoroughly clean the glass container and base. Let everything dry completely.
2. Add a Drainage Layer
Pour a layer of small pebbles or gravel into the bottom of the container (about 1–2 inches deep).
3. Add Activated Charcoal
Sprinkle a thin layer of activated charcoal over the pebbles to help keep the terrarium fresh and reduce odors.
4. Add Potting Soil
Fill with cactus or succulent potting mix, leaving enough room for your plants' roots.
5. Plant Your Succulents
Arrange and plant your succulents and other small terrarium plants. Place taller plants toward the back and shorter plants in front.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Decorate with moss, decorative stones, crystals, driftwood, or other accents for a natural boho look.
7. Mist Lightly
Lightly mist the plants with water. Avoid overwatering, especially when using succulents.
8. Replace the Lid
Put the lid back on, or leave it slightly open if using succulents that prefer better airflow.
9. Find the Right Spot
Place your terrarium in bright, indirect sunlight and enjoy your living art piece.
Boho Apothecary Tips
🌿 Use a mix of green, sage, olive, and burgundy-toned succulents for the same color palette as the example.
🌿 Add a small crystal cluster or tumbled stones for an Anthropologie-inspired touch.
🌿 Water only when the soil is completely dry.
🌿 Rotate occasionally so all plants receive even light.
🌿 If condensation forms on the glass, remove the lid for a few hours.
Materials Needed
Clean vintage gumball machine or glass dispenser
Small pebbles or gravel
Activated charcoal
Cactus/succulent potting mix
Assorted succulents
Decorative moss, stones, or crystals
Spray bottle with water
Adding personal touches can truly elevate your DIY gumball machine terrarium. For example, incorporating fairy lights inside the terrarium not only adds a magical glow but also highlights the unique plants and decorative stones. Using vintage charms or tiny keys tied with macrame can enhance the boho aesthetic, giving it a whimsical, handcrafted feel. From experience, the activated charcoal layer works wonders in keeping the air fresh and preventing any unpleasant odors that sometimes develop in enclosed terrariums. I found that sprinkling just a thin layer is sufficient—too much can interfere with the soil balance. When selecting succulents, mixing shades of green, sage, olive, and burgundy creates an eye-catching and harmonious color palette that fits an Anthropologie-inspired style. Also, rotating your terrarium occasionally ensures even sunlight exposure for all plants, promoting balanced growth. To manage moisture, watering only when the soil is completely dry is crucial, especially since overwatering can lead to root rot in succulents. If you notice condensation inside the glass, removing the lid for a few hours helps regulate humidity and prevent fungal growth. Finally, placing your terrarium in bright, indirect light keeps the plants healthy without risking sunburn. This DIY project is not only easy to customize but also a rewarding way to bring a bit of green indoors in a stylish and creative manner.
That is so cute