Step-by-Step Guide to Kokedama—Japanese Moss Ball Art
Check out the art of Kokedama, a traditional Japanese technique that uses moss balls as plant containers.
This step-by-step guide demystifies the process, making it accessible to crafters of all levels.
It's time to create stunning, minimalist plant displays that bring a sense of calm and beauty to any space.
Tools for Making a Kokedama
- Compact Vegetation (e.g., ferns, succulents, small flowering plants)
- Planting Medium (Bonsai soil or a combination of peat moss and akadama)
- Sphagnum Moss (used for wrapping)
- Sheet Moss (used for covering)
- Twine or String
- Scissors
- Waterproof Tray or Saucer
Guide to Make a Kokedama
- Choose Your Plant: Select a plant like ferns, pothos, small orchids, or succulents that fit well in your space and are suitable for Kokedama.
- Prepare the Soil: Mix potting soil with good drainage based on your plant’s requirements.
- Remove Excess Soil: Carefully reduce the soil around the plant’s roots, keeping enough to support the plant in the Kokedama.
- Form the Soil Ball: Moisten the soil mix slightly and mold it around the plant’s roots to form a ball sized to your plant.
- Wrap in Sphagnum Moss: Encase the soil ball with damp sphagnum moss to hold it together.
- Secure with Twine: Wrap twine around the moss ball in various directions to secure it, leaving extra length if you plan to hang it.
- Cover with Sheet Moss: Add a layer of sheet moss for a tidy finish.
- Secure and Shape: Tighten with more twine and shape the Kokedama into a sphere.
- Hang or Place in a Tray: Either hang the Kokedama using a hook or set it in a waterproof tray or saucer.
Caring a Kokedama
- Watering: Submerge the Kokedama in water until it feels heavy, then let it drain before hanging or placing it back.
- Light: Position the Kokedama in light conditions that meet your plant's specific needs and adjust as necessary.
- Misting: Regularly mist the moss to keep it moist and maintain humidity.
- Feeding: During the growing season, fertilize with diluted liquid fertilizer tailored to your plant's requirements.
- Trimming: Prune the plant as needed to keep its shape and control growth.
- Rejuvenation: Refresh the Kokedama every few years by replacing the old moss and repotting the plant.
Other Notes
- Plant Selection: Opt for plants with similar care needs that thrive in the Kokedama setting.
- Moisture Monitoring: Regularly check the Kokedama's moisture to avoid overwatering or underwatering.
- Rotation: Occasionally rotate the Kokedama to promote uniform growth.
- Placement: Display Kokedama either indoors or outdoors, considering the temperature and light conditions carefully.
James Turner
Founder & Lead Designer
Expertise
Interior Design, Sustainable Design Practices, Spatial Planning, Innovative Material Applications, Contemporary Art Techniques, Visual Communication, Multimedia Artistry, DIY Design and Home Projects, Eco-Friendly Living Spaces, Creative Solutions
Education
University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP)
Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD), Columbus, OH
James Turner is the founder and lead designer at Velocity Art and Design. He studied Interior Design at the University of Cincinnati, focusing on eco-friendly design and smart use of space.
Later, he expanded his artistic skills with a Fine Arts Certificate from the Columbus College of Art & Design, where he learned about modern art and visual storytelling.
With over 10 years in design, James is passionate about making spaces that are both beautiful and practical. He shares his DIY tips and creative ideas to inspire others to explore their own creativity and transform their living spaces.