Kokedama, often called the “Japanese moss ball,” is a unique and artistic way to display plants. This botanical art form has been gaining popularity among plant lovers, urban gardeners, and DIY decorators for its natural charm and minimalist beauty. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant journey, learning how to make a kokedama is a fun, creative, and accessible way to connect with nature.
In this guide, I will walk you through the step-by-step process of making your own kokedama at home. You’ll learn what materials you need, how to choose the right plants, and how to care for your kokedama so it thrives
What Is a Kokedama?
Kokedama (苔玉) is a traditional Japanese gardening technique that translates to “moss ball.” It involves wrapping the roots of a plant in a ball of soil, then encasing it in moss and binding it with string or twine. Kokedama can be displayed on a tray, a decorative dish, or suspended in the air as a hanging garden.
This style of gardening originated from the bonsai tradition and is a beautiful blend of sculpture, horticulture, and design. It’s perfect for small spaces, apartments, or adding greenery to indoor areas without the need for traditional pots or planters.
Why Make a Kokedama?
Making a kokedama isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s also a sustainable and meditative gardening practice. Here are a few reasons why kokedama is worth trying:
- Eco-friendly alternative to plastic pots
- Perfect for renters or small spaces
- A fun, hands-on craft project
- Great way to display indoor plants uniquely
- Low maintenance once established
Kokedama is also inclusive in that it welcomes people of all ages and gardening skill levels. You don’t need a yard or advanced tools - just a few basic materials and a love for plants.
Materials You’ll Need to Make a Kokedama
Before you begin, gather the following kokedama supplies:
Basic Supplies:
- A small to medium-sized plant (ideal kokedama plants listed below)
- Bonsai soil or a mix of akadama soil and peat moss
- Sphagnum moss (for wrapping the soil ball)
- Sheet moss (for the outer layer)
- Twine, cotton string, or jute (for binding)
- Scissors
- A bucket of water
- Gloves (optional but recommended)
Optional:
- Decorative string or wire for hanging
- Tray or dish for tabletop display
Choosing the Right Plant for Your Kokedama
Best Plants for Kokedama:
- Ferns (Boston fern, maidenhair fern)
- Pothos
- Spider plant
- Philodendron
- Peace lily
- English ivy
- Orchids
- Succulents (for advanced users)
Choose healthy, well-rooted plants that are small enough to comfortably fit in your hand. Avoid plants that are too thirsty or need a lot of direct sunlight.
How to Make a Kokedama: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your materials ready, let’s walk through how to make a kokedama from scratch.
Step 1: Prepare the Soil
In a bowl or bucket, mix your bonsai soil with peat moss (about 70% akadama to 30% peat moss). Add water slowly and knead the soil until it becomes a thick, clay-like consistency. You should be able to form it into a firm ball that holds together without crumbling.
Tip: Kokedama soil should be moisture-retentive but breathable to support root health.
Step 2: Remove the Plant from Its Pot
Gently remove your chosen plant from its container. Shake off excess soil from the roots and lightly loosen the root ball. Trim away any dead or excessively long roots, but be gentle—this is about giving the roots space to settle into their new mossy home.
Step 3: Form the Soil Ball
Take a handful of your prepared soil mix and shape it into a ball. Flatten it slightly, then create a small indentation in the center. Place the plant roots inside this indentation and form the soil back into a ball, completely covering the roots.
Use your hands to compact the soil firmly, shaping it into a tight sphere around the base of the plant.
Step 4: Wrap with Sphagnum Moss
Soak the sphagnum moss in water until fully hydrated. Squeeze out the excess water, then wrap it around the soil ball. The moss acts as a moisture-retaining layer, keeping the soil damp and the roots happy.
Make sure the moss fully covers the soil surface for best results.
Step 5: Add the Sheet Moss
Next, lay out your sheet moss (green side out) and wrap it around the sphagnum-covered ball. This outer layer gives the kokedama its beautiful, natural appearance. Overlap the edges of the moss pieces to ensure full coverage.
Step 6: Bind the Moss Ball
Using twine, string, or jute, begin wrapping the moss ball to secure all the layers together. Start at one end and work your way around in a criss-cross pattern. Be firm but not too tight—you want the moss to stay in place without damaging the plant.
Once secure, tie off the string with a knot or tuck the end under the existing wraps.
Pro Tip: For a modern look, try using black cotton string. For a rustic feel, natural jute twine works beautifully.
Step 7: Display Your Kokedama
Now it’s time to display your finished kokedama! Here are a few popular ways:
- Place it in a shallow dish or tray as a tabletop centerpiece
- Hang it using extra string from a hook or rod to create a floating garden
- Group several kokedama together for an eye-catching plant wall
How to Care for a Kokedama
Kokedama care is simple, but regular maintenance is important to keep your plant healthy.
Watering Your Kokedama:
The best way to water a kokedama is by soaking.
- Fill a bowl or sink with room-temperature water.
- Submerge the moss ball for 5–10 minutes.
- Let it soak until you stop seeing air bubbles.
- Remove and gently squeeze out excess water.
- Allow it to drip dry before hanging or placing it back.
Water once or twice a week, depending on the plant type and your indoor climate. During warmer months, you may need to water more often.
Tip: If the moss ball feels very light or the moss is dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
Light and Humidity:
Most kokedama plants prefer bright, indirect light. Keep them away from direct sun, which can dry out the moss quickly.
If you're growing tropical varieties like ferns or orchids, ensure your space has high humidity. A bathroom or kitchen with good light can be an ideal location.
Pruning and Maintenance:
- Trim yellow or dead leaves as needed
- Rewrap or retie string if it becomes loose
- Refresh moss every few months to keep it vibrant
- Repot or remake your kokedama when the plant outgrows its moss ball
Common Kokedama Problems and Solutions
Cause: Overwatering or lack of light
Solution: Adjust watering schedule and relocate
Cause: Low humidity or dry conditions
Solution: Mist regularly or soak more often
Cause: Underwatering or root rot
Solution: Soak thoroughly or check for rot
Cause: Poor air circulation
Solution: Improve ventilation and reduce moisture
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Art of Kokedama
Now that you know how to make a kokedama, you can bring a touch of living art into your home, office, or balcony. Whether you make one or a dozen, kokedama adds a natural, serene beauty to any space. It’s a rewarding way to express your creativity, explore slow living, and deepen your relationship with plants.
Kokedama is more than a gardening trend—it’s a celebration of simplicity, patience, and the elegance of nature. So gather your moss, get your hands dirty, and enjoy the process of making your very own kokedama.
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