Translating literally to "moss ball", the entire concept of Kokedama plants originates from Japan. Known to be a rather unconventional way of growing plants, Kokedama plants are basically balls of soil covered with moss.
The Japanese claim that these plants absorb all kinds of bad and negative energy, making them great additions to indoor gardens while also adding a touch of elegance and intrigue.
• How Are Kokedama Plants Made?
1. Selecting the Right Plant
Choose plants that thrive in a humid environment and have a compact root system. Good choices include ferns, mosses, and small houseplants like snake plants, which are often used for kokedama.
2. Gathering Materials
- High-quality potting soil
- Peat moss
- Bonsai or orchid mix
- Sheet moss
- Sphagnum moss
- Twine or string
- Water-retaining clay
3. Creating the Soil Mix
Blend equal parts of potting soil, peat moss, and bonsai or orchid mix. This creates a well-draining mix that retains moisture that is rather crucial for kokedama plant care.
4. Preparing the Plant
Gently remove excess soil from the plant's roots and trim if necessary. Be cautious not to damage the root structure because the root structure is located right outside and can be pretty easy to nick.
5. Forming the Moss Ball
Wet the sphagnum moss until it's pliable and moldable. Create a ball around the plant roots using the soil mix. Wrap the wet sphagnum moss around the soil, forming a ball.
6. Covering with Sheet Moss
Wrap the ball with sheet moss, securing it with twine or string. To add a little more of a playful hint, you can also make use of colorful string. To ensure that your kokedama has a neat appearance, you should make sure that the moss around the ball is tightly bound.
7. Hanging Kokedama
For a striking visual effect, consider suspending your kokedama from the ceiling using decorative strings. Ensure the string is strong enough to support the weight of the plant.
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• Benefits of Kokedama Plants: Why Should You Make/Buy One?
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Kokedama plants add a distinctive and visually appealing element to indoor spaces with their unique hanging moss ball presentation. It’s basically like nothing you’ve ever seen before because most people are used to seeing plants on display in pots and planters.
Even though these have their own stunning features, these plants add a hint of unmissable intrigue.
2. Space-Saving Design
Ideal for smaller living spaces, kokedama plants allows you to enjoy the beauty of plants without taking up valuable floor or counter space. Hanging kokedama plants make for gorgeous home décor items.
3. Versatility in Plant Selection
Kokedama can be made with a variety of plants, allowing for versatility in choosing species that suit your aesthetic preferences and space conditions. The plants you choose for kokedama should ideally be slow growing so that you don’t have to keep changing the size and location of the existing moss ball.
4. Minimalistic and Modern Decor
The minimalist and modern design of kokedama complements contemporary decor, making it a popular choice for interior styling.
5. Engaging DIY Project
Making kokedama is a hands-on and creative activity that can be enjoyed as a DIY project, providing a sense of accomplishment and personalization. This will need you to have all things handy to create the perfect moss ball, but the process is easier once you know what you need for it!
6. Natural Humidifier
The moss on the kokedama retains moisture, acting as a natural humidifier and benefiting plants that thrive in higher humidity.
7. Adaptability to Various Environments
Kokedama plants are adaptable to different environments, and with proper care, they can thrive in a variety of living conditions.
8. Low Maintenance
While they require specific care, kokedama plants are generally low-maintenance compared to traditional potted plants, making them suitable for busy lifestyles.
9. Stress Relief
As mentioned before, the Japanese are of the belief that Kokedama plants are not only stunning to look at but also absorb all bad energy and negativity in their environment. This means that placing a kokedama in your living space can help you get rid of all negativity and cleanse your house and your mind.
• Kokedama Plant Care Tips
1. Watering
Submerge the kokedama in water for 5-10 minutes, allowing it to absorb moisture. Ensure the moss ball is evenly saturated, but avoid waterlogging because even in kokedama settings, it can lead to root rot.
2. Lighting
Place your kokedama in bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing it to harsh sunlight for extended periods as this can scorch the roots, as they are exposed.
3. Humidity
Kokedama plants benefit greatly from a humid environment. Mist the moss ball regularly, especially in dry climates.
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4. Choosing Suitable Kokedama Plants
Caring for Kokedama plants includes first choosing the right plant to incorporate in them. So, you should opt for plants that are well-suited for kokedama, such as kokedama snake plants, ferns, or small flowering plants. They should be rather slow-growing plants and must be
5. Soil Mix Considerations
Adjust the soil mix based on the specific needs of your chosen plant. Use a kokedama soil mix for optimal results, incorporating ingredients like water-retaining clay.
