Enclosed BIOLOARK Terrarium Setup Guide
By Castle Dawn Aquatics | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up a large enclosed terrarium using the BIOLOARK FD-200 or FD-250. Step-by-step instructions for drainage, substrate, planting, and lighting.
Quick answer
To set up an enclosed BIOLOARK terrarium, start with a drainage layer, add substrate, arrange plants, and use the integrated LED lights for healthy growth.
Why the BIOLOARK works for large terrariums
The Enclosed BIOLOARK Large Terrarium (models FD-200 and FD-250) is designed as a versatile enclosure that can function as a vivarium, paludarium, or traditional terrarium. Its integrated LED lights provide warm, daylight-like illumination for optimal plant growth while adding ambiance to your space. The variable air slits and optional cooling fans help manage humidity and airflow, which are critical for a stable bioactive environment.
Choosing the right size
The FD-200 and FD-250 differ in dimensions, so select the model that fits your available space and the scale of plants you want to grow. Both models share the same features, so your choice depends on the footprint you have. Measure your intended location before ordering.
Step-by-step setup process
- Prepare the drainage layer: Add a 1-2 inch layer of gravel, LECA clay pebbles, or similar drainage material at the bottom of the BIOLOARK. This prevents water from pooling around plant roots and causing rot. Common mistake: using soil directly on the glass bottom leads to waterlogged roots. Always use a drainage layer.
- Add a separator (optional but recommended): Place a sheet of landscape fabric or a thin layer of sphagnum moss over the drainage layer. This keeps the substrate from mixing into the drainage material. Checkpoint: make sure the fabric is cut to fit without gaps, so soil doesn't wash down.
- Add the substrate: Use a well-draining terrarium soil mix (e.g., a blend of coco coir, perlite, and orchid bark). Fill to a depth of 2-4 inches, depending on the root depth of your chosen plants. Common mistake: using garden soil or heavy potting mix compacts over time and suffocates roots. Stick to a light, airy mix.
- Arrange hardscape and plants: Place driftwood, stones, or cork bark first to create structure. Then position plants (e.g., ferns, mosses, small tropicals) with enough space to grow. Gently firm the substrate around roots. Checkpoint: leave a small gap between plants and the glass to allow airflow and prevent condensation buildup against leaves.
- Mist and set up lighting: Mist the substrate and plants lightly. Turn on the integrated LED lights. Set the timer for 10-12 hours per day. Adjust the air slits to maintain humidity (start with them half-open and monitor). Common mistake: closing all air slits creates stagnant, overly humid conditions that promote mold. Start with partial ventilation and adjust based on condensation.
- Maintain and monitor: Check moisture weekly; water only when the top inch of substrate feels dry. Clean the glass as needed. If using the cooling fans, run them during the hottest part of the day to prevent overheating. Checkpoint: if you see persistent condensation, open the air slits more or run the fans longer to increase airflow.
Product facts
- Enclosed BIOLOARK Large Terrarium (FD-200 / FD-250): These versatile terrariums can be used as vivariums, paludariums, or traditional terrariums, offering a wide range of planting options for both aquatic and land-dwelling plants. This means you can create a bioactive setup with both water and land areas, or keep it fully dry, without needing a different enclosure.
Enclosed BIOLOARK Large Terrarium (FD-200 / FD-250) - Enclosed BIOLOARK Large Terrarium (FD-200 / FD-250): The integrated LED lights not only provide warm and natural daylight-like illumination for optimal plant growth but also transform your living or working space with a pleasant ambience. You don't need to buy separate grow lights; the built-in LEDs are sufficient for most low-to-medium light terrarium plants.
- Enclosed BIOLOARK Large Terrarium (FD-200 / FD-250): With variable air slits and additional fans for cooling, the enclosure allows you to adjust ventilation to suit the moisture needs of your plants. You can fine-tune humidity levels to prevent mold while keeping humidity-loving plants happy, which is essential for a long-lasting terrarium.
