Imagine a mini green world, suspended in mid-air, radiating tranquility and a touch of nature’s magic. Kokedama, which translates to "moss ball," is a delightful way to display plants without traditional pots. It’s like giving your plant its own little planet to live on!
This method involves wrapping the plant’s roots in a soil mixture, covering it with moss, and securing it with twine. The result is a living sculpture that can be hung, placed on a decorative tray, or perched on a shelf. Kokedama not only adds aesthetic appeal to your space but also provides a creative way to engage with plant care.
Watering
Watering your kokedama might seem a bit different at first, but it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it. Here’s a straightforward approach:
Soaking: When your kokedama feels light or the moss starts to look dry, it’s time for a soak. Fill a bowl with room-temperature water and submerge the moss ball. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s fully saturated and feels heavy.
Draining: After soaking, gently squeeze out any excess water without damaging the roots. Then, let the kokedama drain in a sink or a colander for a few minutes to avoid drips when you hang it back up or place it on its tray.
Lighting
Different plants have different light needs, and kokedama is no exception. Here’s how to make sure your moss ball gets the right amount of light:
Bright, Indirect Light: Most kokedama plants, like ferns, ivy, and philodendrons, thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a window where they can enjoy filtered sunlight. Direct sun can be too harsh and dry out the moss quickly.
Low Light: Some kokedama plants, such as certain types of ferns and mosses, can tolerate lower light conditions. They’re perfect for adding greenery to those shadier corners of your home.
Fertilizing
Even kokedama needs a little nutritional boost now and then. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer about once a month. Simply add the fertilizer to your soaking water, and let the moss ball absorb the nutrients.
Check out our favorite, Arber Organic Plant Food for a boost of nutrients!
Pruning and Maintenance
To keep your kokedama looking its best, regular maintenance is key. Trim any yellowing or dead leaves to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s shape. If the moss starts to deteriorate or look sparse, you can wrap fresh moss around the ball to give it a rejuvenated appearance.
