Terrariums bring nature indoors safely, but thoughtful planning ensures they remain hazard-free for everyone in your household. From choosing non-toxic plants to proper placement, this guide covers essential safety considerations for families with children, pets, and curious hands of any age.
Plant Toxicity Awareness
Many common indoor plants contain compounds that are toxic if ingested. While terrariums typically deter casual nibbling better than open potted plants, they're not impervious to determined toddlers or curious pets. Understanding which plants pose risks helps you make informed choices.
Plants to Avoid in Family Homes
Several plants sometimes sold for terrariums are toxic to humans and pets. Avoid these in households with children or animals:
- Pothos (Devil's Ivy): Contains calcium oxalate crystals causing mouth and throat irritation
- Philodendron: Similar toxicity to pothos
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Can cause temporary inability to speak
- Caladium: All parts are toxic
- English Ivy: Toxic to pets and humans
- Asparagus Fern: Berries are toxic; contact can cause skin irritation
When in Doubt
If you cannot verify a plant's safety, assume it may be harmful. The aesthetic appeal of any plant isn't worth the risk to children or pets.
Safe Plant Alternatives
Fortunately, many terrarium-suitable plants are non-toxic or present minimal risk:
- Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans
- Peperomia varieties: Generally considered safe
- Boston Fern: Non-toxic to pets
- Most true mosses: Not considered toxic
- Many succulents: Echeveria and haworthia are non-toxic (though not all succulents are safe)
- Air plants (Tillandsia): Non-toxic to pets
Always research specific species before purchasing. Toxicity information is readily available from poison control centres and veterinary resources. When buying from nurseries, ask staff about safety if the information isn't clearly labelled.
Glass Safety Considerations
Terrariums are glass containers, and glass can break. While quality terrarium containers are reasonably sturdy, they're not indestructible. Thoughtful placement and handling minimises breakage risk.
Stable Placement
Position terrariums on stable, level surfaces where they're unlikely to be knocked over. Avoid edges of tables, narrow shelves, or surfaces that wobble. Consider the path of regular foot traffic—a terrarium near a doorway or in a high-traffic zone is more likely to be bumped.
If you have active children or pets, place terrariums higher than their reach. Wall-mounted options or high shelves keep glass safely away from curious exploration while still allowing viewing.
Handling Broken Glass
If a terrarium breaks, prioritise safety over saving plants. Clear the area of children and pets before cleaning. Wear thick gloves when handling broken glass. Use damp paper towels to pick up small fragments—they cling better than dry materials. Vacuum the area afterwards to catch invisible slivers.
Consider Alternatives
- Acrylic containers offer shatter resistance (though they scratch more easily)
- Thick-walled containers are sturdier than thin glass
- Wall-mounted terrariums keep glass out of reach
- Geometric terrariums with metal frames offer some structural reinforcement
Child-Friendly Terrarium Practices
Terrariums can be wonderful educational tools for children when approached thoughtfully. They teach ecology, responsibility, and patience. Making them accessible safely enriches the experience.
Age-Appropriate Involvement
Young children can participate in terrarium care under supervision. They might help choose pebbles, observe plant growth, or assist with light misting. Older children can take on more responsibility—monitoring moisture levels, pruning, and documenting changes.
Set clear boundaries about handling. Children should understand that terrariums are observed rather than touched without permission. Establish viewing times if constant handling becomes an issue.
Creating a Child's Own Terrarium
A terrarium specifically for a child encourages ownership while keeping other terrariums undisturbed. Choose sturdy containers, non-toxic plants, and position it where the child can easily observe. Make care routines age-appropriate—simple tasks they can accomplish with minimal adult help.
Pet Safety
Cats, dogs, and other pets may show interest in terrariums. Some are attracted to soil (digging instinct), some to plants (grazing behaviour), and some to the glass container itself. Understanding your pets' behaviours helps you plan accordingly.
Cats
Cats may attempt to access terrariums to dig in soil or nibble plants. Closed terrariums are naturally more cat-resistant. For open terrariums, placement out of cat reach is essential—remember that cats are excellent climbers and jumpers. Some cat owners find that providing cat grass nearby redirects plant-nibbling behaviour.
Dogs
Dogs are less likely to climb to terrariums but may knock them over if placed within tail-wagging range. Curious puppies might investigate anything at their level. Elevate terrariums beyond nose height, and ensure placement is stable against dog activity.
Other Pets
Birds allowed free flight might perch on or investigate terrariums. Rabbits and guinea pigs with house access may nibble accessible plants. Consider your specific pets' behaviours and tendencies when planning terrarium placement.
Know Your Pets
Every pet is different. Some cats ignore plants entirely; some are determined nibblers. Observe your specific pets' behaviours and adjust placement accordingly. What works in one household may not work in another.
Chemical and Material Safety
The materials used in terrariums should be safe for your household. Most standard terrarium supplies pose no risk, but some considerations are worth noting.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal used in drainage layers is generally safe but messy. It's not toxic, but ingestion of large amounts might cause stomach upset. Keep bags sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
Fertilisers and Treatments
If you use fertilisers or pest treatments (generally unnecessary for healthy terrariums), store them safely away from children and pets. Follow all label instructions. Choose products specifically labelled as safe for indoor use when possible.
Decorative Elements
Decorative items like painted figurines, coloured sand, or artificial elements should be verified as non-toxic if used in terrariums accessible to children or pets. Natural materials—stones, untreated wood, moss—are generally safer choices.
Mould and Fungal Concerns
Terrariums occasionally develop mould, particularly closed containers with excess moisture. While typically not dangerous to healthy individuals, mould can affect those with respiratory sensitivities or compromised immune systems.
Address mould promptly by improving ventilation and reducing moisture. Remove heavily affected plant material. If persistent mould develops, the terrarium may need to be disassembled and rebuilt with better balance. Don't ignore ongoing mould issues in homes with sensitive individuals.
Safe Terrarium Enjoyment
With thoughtful planning, terrariums are safe additions to any household. Choose non-toxic plants, position containers securely, and consider the specific behaviours of children and pets in your home. These miniature gardens can be enjoyed by everyone when basic safety principles are followed.
For more guidance on creating terrariums, explore our beginner's guide or learn about plant selection.