---
title: Layers: terrarium basics | Glass Jar Garden
description: Bottom to top: drainage, a barrier, soil, then a top dressing. Drainage (LECA or gravel): spare water collects here, away from the roots. Barrier mesh: stops...
url: https://glassjar.garden/guide/basics/layers/
---

Basics

# Layers

Bottom to top: drainage, a barrier, soil, then a top dressing.

- Drainage (LECA or gravel): spare water collects here, away from the roots.
- Barrier mesh: stops soil washing down into the drainage.
- Soil (a mix like ABG): where roots live. Deep enough for them, usually 5 to 8 cm.
- Top dressing (moss, leaf litter, stones): looks good, holds damp, feeds the crew.
- Water so the soil is damp, never soggy. Standing water above the drainage rots roots.

[Try it in a jar](https://glassjar.garden/?guide=basics/layers)

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