u/DeceptiveRelish06

After lurking here for a long time, I've finally got myself a jar to make my first paludarium. It needs a clean (previously held Himalayan pink salt) but I want to take my time so plan this properly and not F up my first attempt by rushing.

I have a nice lake nearby that I can take water and plants from, OR I can leave the jar outside to catch rain.

Please help me get the best possible start. What are absolute musts? What should I avoid? What are my options?

I'd like the end result to be clear water, green plants, and some tiny little water dwelling creatures. I'm planning on having it sit on my WFH desk so I have a little bit of nature to look at during the day.