The Art of Kokedama
The cultivation style and artistic practice of Kokedama is a centuries-old method of growing and displaying plants. The Japanese word “Kokedama” literally translates to “moss ball,” but the rich history of this planting style is far more complex.
The History
Kokedama is a Japanese method of wrapping a plant’s root system in moss and twine. The moss can be filled with soil or potting medium and shaped into a ball or a unique desired shape. This method creates a sculptural vessel for the plant to be on display, and the moss helps keep the soil together and better retain moisture. Each Kokedama is its own little habitat!
The practice of wrapping the roots of plants in moss and twine is thought to date back to the Edo period of Japan between 1603-1868. It is said that monks used this technique of plant cultivation as a way to bring nature indoors while having limited space for full gardens. This horticultural practice also alleviated the need for expensive pots, making it popular for members of the lower class as well.
Bonsai gardening was commonplace at the time, but monks did not have enough space for gardens or places to display ornate bonsai plants. With limited resources, the monks could grow bonsai plants in Kokedmas and display them from the ceiling, walls, or shelves.
The Kokedama method actually involves the practice of bonsai, as the plants potted in Kokedamas are naturally kept dwarfed. Because the root ball is wrapped in moss and twine, the plant goes through a process called air pruning. Air pruning is when the roots grow to the edge of the ball but instead of breaking out of the moss, they sense the oxygen surrounding the moss and halt growing in that direction. This results in the plant remaining perfectly dwarfed!
The Method
Kokedama is still a relatively new trend in the Western world, and it has quickly gained popularity as a way to care for houseplants and appeal to minimalist design trends. The concept of “air gardening” has utilized Kokedamas as a way to suspend plants in the air rather than being restricted in pots. Although most commonly displayed hung by chain, twine, or wire, Kokedama can also be displayed on a tray or plate. The possibilities of ways to display Kokedamas are endless, but it’s important to know how to care for plants in these unique moss balls.
Watering needs for your Kokedama depend on what you decide to plant in it. Plants that require more moisture and need indirect light are best suited for these moss balls. Ferns are a great option as they like staying moist and typically thrive in shady areas with bright, indirect light. Orchids are another popular option, and they look stunning in the simple moss balls.
To water your Kokedama, fill a container or sink with a few inches of water and soak your moss ball for 20-60 minutes. Do not soak for more than a few hours as root rot can occur. Remove your Kokedama and gently squeeze the moss in your hands to release excess moisture.
You can check the moisture level of your Kokedama by feeling the moss and holding the ball to determine how heavy it is. If the ball feels heavy and damp, it still has enough moisture and can wait a few more days. If the ball feels light and the moss is dry or slightly crunchy, it’s time for a water. It is normal for the twine surrounding the moss of the Kokedama to disintegrate over time. Don’t panic if your Kokedama needs some fresh twine after a year or two.
Explore our Kokedama collection here at Seascapes!
