Kokedama is a Japanese horticultural art form that translates to “moss ball.” This living sculpture involves encasing a plant’s root system in a spherical bundle of soil, which is then wrapped entirely in sheet moss and secured with string. The moss ball functions as a self-contained, natural planter, offering a distinct alternative to traditional ceramic or plastic potted plants. This centuries-old method brings a piece of natural, minimalist landscape indoors.
Defining the Moss Ball Garden
The concept of Kokedama originated in Japan, drawing from the country’s deep aesthetic traditions and gardening practices. The term is derived from two Japanese words: koke (moss) and dama (ball or lump). This technique traces its history back to the Edo period and is an adaptation of an older bonsai method known as Nearai.
Nearai involved displaying a plant with its dense root ball exposed after removal from a container. Kokedama simplified this by containing the root ball within a compact sphere of nutrient-rich earth, then covering it with moss for a polished, natural appearance. The aesthetic philosophy behind Kokedama aligns with Wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty found in the transience and natural imperfections of nature.
Construction and Necessary Materials
The foundation of a Kokedama is a specialized soil mixture designed to maintain a spherical shape while retaining moisture. Traditionally, this core utilizes a blend of akadama (a granular clay soil for structure and drainage) and ketotsuchi (a sticky peat muck that acts as a binder).
These components, or modern alternatives like clay-based soil and peat moss, are mixed with water to create a malleable paste. This dense, cohesive mixture is firmly packed around the plant’s roots after they are gently cleaned of their original potting medium. Once the soil is shaped into a tight sphere, it is carefully wrapped in damp sheet moss. The final step involves securing the moss tightly to the soil ball using natural twine, fishing line, or wire.
Caring for Your Kokedama
The unique, pot-less nature of the Kokedama requires a distinct approach to watering, which differs significantly from traditional potted plants. The primary watering method is submersion, where the moss ball is placed in a bowl of room-temperature water, plant side up, and allowed to soak. The presence of air bubbles rising indicates the core is absorbing water.
Soaking typically lasts between 10 and 25 minutes, or until the bubbles cease, signifying complete saturation. After soaking, the ball is removed and gently squeezed to drain excess water, which prevents the roots from sitting in overly saturated conditions. A reliable way to determine when to water is by lifting the Kokedama; a noticeably light ball indicates it is ready for another soak.
Kokedama plants generally thrive in conditions that mimic a moist, shaded forest floor, meaning they prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight is avoided, as it can quickly dry out the moss and cause it to burn or turn brown. Many varieties also benefit from increased humidity, which can be provided by regular misting. Suitable plants are those that tolerate restricted root space and consistent moisture, including ferns, ivy, pothos, and philodendrons.