What began as a hobby of making terrariums using recycled glass containers and used items has grown into a creative passion for Muhammad Syukur Abdullah, who now designs and produces intricate miniature gardens.
The 21-year-old Aquaculture Technology diploma student, at Politeknik Jeli Kelantan, said his fascination with terrariums started during his secondary school years after watching an online video.
“After several tries, I was finally able to create my own terrarium.
“From there, my interest grew and I decided to pursue an Aquaculture Technology certificate at Jerantut Community College, Pahang, in 2022.
“During my two years at the community college, I gained valuable knowledge about plant basics and proper care methods, which helped me better understand how to ensure they survive longer,” he told Bernama.
The native of Bukit Mertajam, Penang, said his five-month industrial training experience at an aquatic shop in Selangor gave him exposure to professional terrarium-making techniques.
Muhammad Syukur said the experience gave him greater confidence in his terrarium-making skills, leading him to begin selling his creations online on a small scale in 2022.
“My interest in terrariums continued to grow after I started at Politeknik Jeli earlier this year.
“I also initiated the Green Vista Club, which is guided by Aquaculture Technology lecturer Zalina Che Manan, to encourage students to share their passion and knowledge in this field.
“We also share our knowledge of creating and caring for plants in glass containers with others, including kindergarten teachers.”
Muhammad Syukur said he had mastered three types of terrarium design – waterless landscapes, aquascapes featuring underwater environments, and paludariums that incorporate both terrestrial and aquatic elements such as waterfalls.
The terrarium-making process begins with preparing several layers, including clay balls and black soil mixed with dry moss to help maintain humidity levels.
“This layer is important to store water and ensure the plants can grow well.
“Once the basic layer is completed, I begin designing the terrarium using materials such as wood, stones and moss,” he said, adding that spiderwood was among his preferred materials due to its durability and resistance to mould.
The most challenging aspect of creating a terrarium for Muhammad Syukur is arranging the finer details, as each element must be placed with precision.
Even a small mistake, he said, could affect the overall appearance and reduce the natural appeal of the terrarium.
“I usually use plants such as fittonia, ferns and bonsai. The concept depends on the customer’s requests, including forest-style, diorama, Japanese or Iwagumi designs. So far, most prefer the diorama style because it resembles a fantasy world.
“Every terrarium I produce is monitored for one to two weeks to ensure the plants adapt well before it is delivered to the customer.”
Muhammad Syukur said he could make five to 10 terrariums a month in different sizes, ranging from mini and standard to premium.
The production time takes between an hour and a day depending on the complexity of the design, with prices ranging from RM10 to RM570.
“The terrarium needs to be maintained by monitoring humidity and lighting conditions, with watering only done once or twice a week.”
On difficulties he faced as a terrarium maker, Muhammad Syukur said balancing his studies with fulfilling orders was the biggest challenge.
“I need to plan my time well so that my studies remain on track while ensuring customers receive their orders on time.”
He, however, has yet to deliver to places outside Kelantan on worry that the terrariums could be damaged during transit.
