There’s something special about seeing glass planters hanging from ceilings and rafters filled with gorgeous succulents. That’s why hanging terrariums are our absolute favorite at 46 & Spruce. They definitely provide an “instant cool” to any space.
Since we are drooling over this super chic decor item at the moment, we thought we would share our tips and tricks for styling and arranging hanging terrariums.
The first step is to decide on the style of terrarium you want:
The Single Succulent Look:
This is a minimalist style of hanging terrarium, where you use one spectacular succulent and let it be the focal point without any distractions. Try a geometric hanging terrarium like this Pyramid or Dodecahedron terrarium to make the contents really pop!
Multiplies of Similar Succulents:
This is a really striking layout within a terrarium. Several of the same or similar succulents are arranged together in a bulbous terrarium like these Capsule or Teardrop hanging terrariums. Look for succulents that are either all the same or different, but are the same color.
Succulent arrangement:
This is any type of hanging terrarium arrangement that uses several types of succulents in varying textures, shapes, colors and sizes. Anything goes with this style, but we do have a few tips to help take your arrangement to the next level.
Tip #1: Color Scheme
When arranging succulents inside of a hanging terrarium, pick a color scheme and stick to it. This can be anything from colorful to tonal. A modern color scheme is color blocking. Pick plants that are all in the same color family. An obvious color choice would be green, but succulents do come in lots of colors so you could choose any color to match your decor.
Tip #2: Star of the Show
A key to a good hanging terrarium arrangement is picking a special succulent as the main focal point. The goal here is to pick a plant with a bold texture, shape or in a contrasting color. Some of our favorites are Haworthia fasciata (Zebra Plant) and all types of Echeveria.
Tip #3: Gap Fillers
Gap fillers are succulents that are a little simpler in their appearance and work as a good backdrop to the star of the show within a hanging terrarium. The Morganianum (Burro’s Tail) and Kalanchoe tomentosa (Panda Plant) are perfect examples of fillers. Use them sparingly to really showcase the terrarium as a whole.
Tip #4: Height
Giving some height to your hanging terrarium helps add structure and interest to the decor item. Plants like the Jelly Bean Succulent are ideal for this. Arrange at the back and sides of your terrarium.
Tip#5: Cascading
Adding a cascading succulent to a hanging terrarium can really create a bold decor statement. The go-to succulent for anything cascading is the Senecio rowleyanus (String of Pearls), but Morganianum (Burro’s Tail) is a good option too. Make sure these are planted in the front, closest to the opening, so they can easily tumble out.
After deciding on what style of hanging terrarium you are going with, you will be much clearer on the types of succulents you will need. When choosing, try to find a retailer that specializes in succulents and has a large selection. This way, you can get all your plants at one place. We’ve found that retailers specializing in succulents seem to have the healthiest plants.
Things to look for when choosing plants are: blemish and scar-free leaves and stems: no visible signs of disease or bug infestation.
Now that you have chosen your succulents and hanging terrariums, you are onto the fun part! Happy planting! As long as you follow your creative spirit, you truly can’t go wrong!