Guide to Kokedama: Care Tips for All Seasons

What is a Kokedama?

Kokedama, meaning “moss ball” in Japanese, is a distinctive plant display where the plant’s roots are enclosed in a ball of soil wrapped with moss. This artistic bonsai style is appreciated for its simple, natural look. Kokedama can be hung or placed on a tray, adding a touch of greenery to any setting.

Basic Components

1. Plant: Select a plant that thrives indoors, such as ferns, pothos, or orchids.
2. Soil: Use a mix of peat moss and akadama (a type of bonsai soil).
3. Moss: Sphagnum moss or flat moss to cover the soil ball.
4. String: Cotton or nylon string to secure the moss around the soil ball.

Creating a Kokedama

1. Prepare the Soil Ball: Combine peat moss and akadama, moisten the mixture, and shape it into a ball.
2. Insert the Plant: Make a hole in the soil ball and gently place the plant’s roots inside.
3. Wrap with Moss: Cover the soil ball with wet sphagnum moss.
4. Secure with String: Wrap string around the moss-covered ball to hold everything in place.

How to water kokedama:

Summer Care Tips

1. Watering: In summer, kokedama dries out faster. Check the moisture daily and submerge the moss ball in water for 20-30 minutes when it feels light and dry.
2. Humidity: Enhance humidity by misting the moss ball and the plant leaves regularly.
3. Light: Keep your kokedama in indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can dry out the moss and damage the plant.
4. Temperature: Place your kokedama in a cool, shaded spot to prevent overheating.

Winter Care Tips

1. Watering: In winter, reduce watering frequency. Submerge the moss ball only when it feels dry, which might be every 10-14 days depending on indoor conditions.
2. Humidity: Indoor heating can dry out the air, so continue misting the moss ball and plant to maintain humidity.
3. Light: Ensure your kokedama gets enough light, as natural daylight is often limited in winter. Consider using a grow light if needed.
4. Temperature: Avoid placing your kokedama near heating vents or cold drafts. A stable temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C) is ideal.

General Maintenance Tips

• Fertilization: Feed your kokedama with a diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Pruning: Trim any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.
• Re-wrapping: If the moss begins to deteriorate, re-wrap the ball with fresh moss to maintain its appearance and health.

By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your kokedama year-round.

If you have not already, don’t forget to sign up for one of our kokedama workshops in Barcelona or Madrid, and enjoy time together with plants, nature and your loved ones. This unique plant display not only beautifies your indoor space but also connects you to a traditional Japanese art form.