Aloe vera

Aloe vera

Aloes are great plants for arid terrariums. Their interesting leaf shapes and growth habits make them ideal for adding interest to a planting arrangement. The leaves are often armed with spines so care should be taken when using them with larger species of animals. Aloes need bright lighting and a well drained soil which prevents the roots rotting. Their leaves are designed to store water and so they are tolerant of occasional drying out, but this should be avoided if possible. They prefer to be watered as the soil dries out, but before they are completely dry. Unless the terrarium is set up with a deep, bio-active substrate then plants is a dry terrarium are best kept in their pot, which is then disguised with substrate and decor. This allows the plants to be watered as necessary without making the whole substrate too damp.

Phrases like 'Terrascaping', 'Bio-Active' and 'Living Terrariums' are becoming more and more common in the world of reptile and amphibian care, as keepers become more aware of the benefits of creating a living ecosystem for their pets.

Apart from the aesthetic appeal of a planted terrarium there are some very real, tangible benefits for the animals. Living plants provide natural cover and climbing perches, shade, basking sites and maintain natural humidity. Just as live plants in an office can improve workers well-being, live plants in a terrarium will have the same effect for animals.

But not all plants are suitable for terrarium use and it is important to not only choose the correct plants for the environment but also to select species or varieties that do not grow too large. Many houseplants for sale appear suitable when they are small specimens in a garden centre, but given time they may end up as giants that overwhelm a terrarium.