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Build an Aquarium Terrarium

Show your child how to take an old aquarium and turn it into a terrarium -- complete with plants and insects!

Build an Aquarium Terrarium

You'll need these materials:

  • A small to medium size aquarium
  • Charcoal (finely ground)
  • Small pebbles
  • Perlite
  • Soil mix
  • Assorted small plants, such as ivy, mini-african violets, small herb plants, or cacti
  • Glass or plastic for top

    What to do:

  • Wash and dry the aquarium.
  • In thin layers, add the charcoal, pebbles, perlite, and soil.
  • Make the soil deep enough to support a small plant, approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep.
  • Water plants well and remove from their containers.
  • With a teaspoon, dig a small hole for the root and plant the herbs, flowers, and small plants. Do not put them too closely together.
  • Now it's time to go out and find insects.
  • After you collect the insects, put them in your terrarium.
  • Cover the aquarium with a screen top.
  • Place in light, but not direct sun. Water only with droplets since this will be a moist environment.
  • Enjoy watching it grow.
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