How to Make a Desert Terrarium

Line the bottom of your terra cotta container with one to two cups of pebbles for drainage; there should be at least an inch of drainage material on the bottom of the container. You will need more pebbles -- up to three inches deep -- for large containers.

Place a 1/2-inch to 1-inch layer of charcoal over the drainage material. The charcoal helps neutralize the odor of any decaying matter in the soil as the plants grow.

Place an inch of sphagnum moss over the charcoal. The moss keeps the soil and sand from slipping down into the drainage layer. However, be aware that the moss will hold moisture, making it unnecessary to water to the same degree as if there were no moss. If you find that your desert terrariums stay too wet even with minimal watering, omit the sphagnum moss and place a thin, fine screen over the charcoal instead.

Fill your container about halfway with potting soil. The potting soil should have sand mixed with it, but do not use beach sand, as this has too many contaminants that can harm the plants.

Position any stones that will be part of the terrarium decorations and stick out of the soil.

Fill the terrarium container to almost full with soil.

Place a 1-inch layer of sand on top of the soil.

Dig holes in the terrarium soil and sand layers to insert your terrarium plants. Place the tallest plants in the back if you'll view the terrarium only from one side. Place the tallest plants in the middle if you'll be able to see the terrarium from all sides.

Water your plants minimally to help the soil settle around the roots.

Add finishing touches such as fake frogs, bugs or scorpions.

Position the terrarium in its final location. Place the glass or clear plastic cover over the terra cotta container if the terrarium is to be enclosed.