The Art of Kokedama in Home Gardening

Origins of Kokedama: A Brief and Inconsequential History

As you may or may not know, Kokedama is a Japanese art form that is equal parts horticulture and haute couture for houseplants. A form of ikebana, Kokedama translates to "moss ball" in the language of its origin. This avant-garde approach to gardening involves encasing a plant's root system in a ball of soil and moss, then suspending it in mid-air like a stately chandelier of chlorophyll. But who cares about the etymology when we're here to discuss the practicalities?

Wherefore Art Thou, Kokedama: Locating the Perfect Plant

Not all plants are suited to a life of suspended animation. Kokedama favors those with a certain je ne sais quoi, that ineffable quality which can only be described as "pliant"; plants that don't mind a good binding. Ferns, for example, are prime candidates for Kokedama-ification. Other suggested botanicals include ivy, pothos, and the ever-popular philodendron. But don't let this brief list stifle your creativity. The world is your oyster, and the plants are your pearls, just waiting to be strung into a fantastical Kokedama necklace.

Rolling in the Dirt: Creating Your Kokedama Ball

As any reputable Kokedama enthusiast knows, the first step in creating your mossy masterpiece is to make a soil mixture worthy of your plant's roots. This typically consists of two parts peat moss and one part bonsai soil - a blend of akadama, pumice, and lava rock. The peat moss provides a good moisture-retaining foundation, while the bonsai soil contributes a bit of aeration for good measure. Once you have concocted a soil mixture to rival the very essence of the earth itself, it's time to get your hands dirty.

Begin by removing your chosen plant from its pot and gently massaging the roots to remove any excess soil. The goal is not to denude the roots entirely but to give them a bit of breathing room in their new Kokedama abode. Next, moisten your soil mixture and form it into a ball around the base of the roots. This may require a bit of coaxing and cajoling, but you are an artist, and the soil is your medium. Once you have a solid sphere, wrap it in a sheet of moss - sphagnum moss, to be exact - and secure it with twine, string, or any other cordage that strikes your fancy.

Up, Up, and Away: The Suspended Life of Kokedama

With your plant now ensconced in its mossy cocoon, it's time to suspend it for all the world - or at least your houseguests - to see. The preferred method of suspension is a simple loop of twine, though a more elaborate and decorative option is to use a macramé hanger. Whichever method you choose, it is crucial to ensure that your Kokedama is situated in an area with adequate light, lest it wither away in a tragic display of artistic hubris.

Drink Up, My Pretty: Watering Your Kokedama Creation

Watering your Kokedama is perhaps the most delicate and intimate aspect of this art form. It's a veritable spa day for your suspended green friend. To properly hydrate your Kokedama, submerge the entire ball in a container of water for 10-20 minutes, depending on the size and thirst of the plant. Remove the Kokedama from its aquatic bath, allowing any excess water to drain away. This gentle process is not only a meditative experience for you, the artist, but also ensures that your Kokedama remains moist and thriving.

Does This Moss Make Me Look Fat? Pruning and Grooming Your Kokedama

As with any living thing, a Kokedama occasionally requires a bit of TLC in the form of grooming and pruning. This may involve trimming back any unruly growth or removing dead leaves. It is also important to keep an eye on the moss itself, ensuring that it remains lush and verdant. If you notice any areas of browning or decay, simply remove the offending piece of moss and replace it with a fresh patch. Remember, you are the puppet master of this living diorama, and it is your responsibility to keep your creation in tip-top shape.

In Conclusion: Embrace the Art of Kokedama

Once you have delved into the verdant world of Kokedama, there is no turning back. It is a practice that requires patience, dedication, and an appreciation for the finer things in life. So go forth, dear gardener, and suspend your plants with pride. Revel in the artistry of Kokedama, and let your mossy masterpieces be a testament to your horticultural prowess.


Article kindly provided by yourhomengarden.org