How to Install a Background Terrarium

Research the needs of the reptile to determine the type of materials to use. For example, corn snakes need a place to hide and a climbing area. Some reptiles prefer lots of dense vegetation. If you're unsure of the type of environment your animal needs, ask a veterinarian for advice.

Attach a cork bark or tree fern panel to the back wall of the terrarium. This panel is the vertical foundation for the background of the terrarium. Outline the back of the panel with a terrarium-safe silicone sealant, and press the panel to the glass on the inside of the terrarium. These products are commonly available at pet stores.

Position several epiphytic plants against the background panel. Epiphytic plants grow on other plants. Examples include ferns, lichens and bromeliads. Check with a veterinarian to be sure that the plants you select aren't toxic to your animal.

Add a layer of substrate to the terrarium. The exact material you should use depends on the type of reptile you have. For example, use pine chips for a corn snake. If your animal needs to bathe, slope the substrate to allow water to pool at one end.

Place clean rocks and branches in the terrarium. These natural objects fulfill your reptile's need to climb and hide, and they add to the aesthetics of the terrarium.