DIY Halloween Terrarium: Spooky Living Decor

Plants rarely feature in Halloween decor, but living things evoke festive spirit without overkill. Baylor Chapman of Lila B. Design shows how to make a Halloween terrarium with Venus flytrap and spooky plants—quick to assemble, replantable after the holiday.

Plant Materials (4-inch or smaller pots)

• 'Black Mystic' earth star (Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic') or strappy plant (Dracaena, bromeliad)
• Emerald ripple pepper (Peperomia caperata) or fancy-leaf begonia
• Lady's-slipper orchid, moth orchid, or tall element with "facial character"
• Bulldog orchid or moth orchid
• Ruby red spikemoss (Selaginella erythropus 'Sanguinea') or wire vine (Muehlenbeckia) for creeping feel
• Venus flytrap, pitcher plant, or carnivorous plant
• Sheet moss (any type)
• Spanish moss
• Interesting-shaped branch, just taller than vessel

Other Materials & Tools

• Glass vessel (cylinder, water cooler, ball jar)
• Plastic tray insert (fits flat in base)
• Extra-long tweezers/tongs
• Battery-operated string lights & tea lights
• Craft owl & spider
• Turkey baster (watering)

1. Insert plastic tray—holds plant pots, catches excess water.

2. Place plants (in plastic pots) on tray. Largest in back, smaller in front.

Tilt small plants forward (like Venus flytrap) for visibility and lower fill.

Fluff leaves against glass, intertwine foliage, blend plants to look long-established.

3. Grab moss to conceal pots. Sheet moss works; try dyed moss for unusual scenes.

Tuck moss between/on containers until plastic disappears.

4. Insert battery lights with tweezers. Cluster tea lights in front to brighten dark spots, highlight Venus flytrap. String lights in back for emerald ripple pepper glow and owl highlight.

5. Insert branch for spider perch. Drape Spanish moss over it.

6. Place black owl above string lights for illumination.

7. Add spider on branch/moss, appearing to spin web.

Place on shelf/flat surface for enjoyment. Indirect bright light prolongs life; avoid hot direct sun.

Check weekly for watering. Use turkey baster per plant container. Soil slightly moist. Tray holds extra water—avoid overwatering. Stop if foggy/soggy.

Orchid blooms fade; Venus flytrap may need more maintenance. Swap plants as needed for years of life. When done, transplant all (still in plastic pots).

Tip: Remove plants upside down through opening, pot first, to avoid damage.