FAQs

Yes, we ship live plants and organisms like isopods and springtails within Australia. We ensure proper packaging to keep them healthy during transit. Plants and organisms can safely last up to 7 days in the post.

Most orders are posted on Monday or Tuesday morning, via an express service. Over 90% of our orders will arrive within the same week they’re posted. See our shipping page for more info.

Springtails are tiny decomposers that feed on fungi and fine organic matter. Isopods are larger crustaceans that break down leaf litter and bigger pieces of decaying material.

Yes! They make a useful clean-up crew together, provided the enclosure suits both species. Springtails can also be added to isopod cultures. Learn more in our Isopod Guide⁠.

No. Springtails do not bite or sting and are harmless to people and pets. They aren’t fleas or parasites. Learn more about springtails⁠.

Springtails feed on fungi and decaying organic matter. In separate cultures, small amounts of yeast or fish flakes can provide extra food, depending on the species. See our Springtail Care Guide⁠.

Isopods eat leaf litter, decaying wood and other dead plant material. Small amounts of vegetables or fish flakes can supplement their diet. They also need a calcium source, such as cuttlebone. See our Isopod Care Guide⁠.

For a small terrarium, start with at least 20 springtails. Larger enclosures benefit from a larger starter population. Keep some aside as a backup culture. Our Springtail Care Guide⁠ explains how to introduce them.

Their populations usually respond to available food, space and conditions. Numbers can grow quickly when food is plentiful, so avoid overfeeding. An overcrowded colony may need some animals moved to another suitable enclosure.

Yes! Spiny Leaf Insects are fascinating pets for observing camouflage, growth and life cycles. An adult should oversee their care and supervise handling. Read our Spiny Leaf Insect Care Guide⁠ before getting started.

Spiny Leaf Insects eat fresh eucalyptus, or gum leaves. Offer pesticide-free foliage, inspect and wash it before use, and replace it before it dries out. Fresh leaves should always be available. See our Care Guide⁠.

No. Female Spiny Leaf Insects can produce viable eggs without mating. This is called parthenogenesis, and these eggs develop into females. Our Care Guide⁠ explains how to care for eggs and hatchlings.

A terrarium is a self-contained ecosystem that mimics natural environments. It typically consists of a glass container filled with plants, soil, and decorative elements. Some terrariums are sealed to retain moisture, while others are open and require more regular care.

Terrariums need bright, indirect light. Place in a well-lit position, near a window. Avoid any direct sunlight, as it can cook the plants! If your room is dark, consider LED lighting.

For an enclosed terrarium, water lightly when the glass is clear & the soil is dry – usually every couple of weeks when new, and every few months (if at all) once established. Light condensation on the glass is normal, especially morning and night. If the glass remains foggy all day, or there’s a lot of water in the drainage layer, don’t water! Remove the lid for 1-2 hours every day or two until drainage layer water disappears. Less is definitely more, when it comes to watering enclosed terrariums.

Signs can include soggy soil, constant heavy condensation, mushy plants or mould. The quickest way to check is if the water in the drainage layer is touching the substrate above. If so, remove the lid, let your terrarium air out completely until everything dries. Sometimes you may need to drain some water – if this happens, contact us.

Ferns, mosses, and tropical plants like fittonias and syngonium are popular choices for enclosed terrariums. For open terrariums with plenty of light, succulents are a great choice!

Yes, your terrarium may need an occasional trim. Cut dead leaves & new growth with clean scissors or shears, to maintain your desired shape. Plant cuttings like Fittonia can be replanted – cut just above the node, and plant straight into your terrarium.

Your plants will grow towards your window or light source, so you may need to rotate your terrarium every month or so for even growth.

Terrarium mould is normal, especially early on. Wipe gently & air out for a couple of hours a day until gone. We offer bio-active solutions to help control mould outbreaks. Check out our Care Instructions for help.

Condensation on your terrarium glass is a sign that everything is healthy and thriving, especially in the morning and evening. If your terrarium has too much condensation, or you want to show it off, remove the lid for an hour or two, or give it a quick wipe with a cloth.

Nope! Our substrates contain worm castings, which will provide plenty of nutrients to help your plants thrive, especially when new. There’s no need to fertilise after this, as you’ll want your plants to remain relatively small and low maintenance.

A bioactive terrarium includes living organisms like isopods and springtails that help break down waste and maintain a balanced ecosystem. They often require less care and are considered ‘self-sustaining’. If your terrarium has mould, this could be the answer!

With the right care, your terrarium can thrive for years or even decades. Keep an eye on light levels and moisture, and you’ll be enjoying your terrarium for years to come.

We currently specialise in high-quality terrarium supplies, plants, and bioactive products. We offer pre-made terrariums on a case-by-case basis, as they’re a lot harder to ship. If you’re interested in purchasing a pre-made terrarium, contact us here.

Yes! If your item arrives damaged, or you’re not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us and we’ll make it right. See our Refund and Returns Policy for more info.

Of course! If you have any questions or concerns, we have a range of instructions available in our Care Hub. If this doesn’t cover your query, or you just want to speak about anything terrarium related, DM us on our socials, or contact us here.