Are you ready to add a touch of Japanese elegance to your home decor?
Look no further than the art of kokedama, a beautiful and unique planting method that involves wrapping a plant in moss instead of placing it in a pot.
Not only does kokedama make for a stunning display piece, but it’s also a space-saving alternative to traditional pots and can be easily hung from a ceiling or placed on a shelf.
In this article, we’ll explain the simple steps to creating your kokedama using just a few basic materials.
We’ll also share tips on choosing the best plants for your kokedama and provide expert advice on caring for your new natural planter.
What You’ll Need
- Floral wire, 26 gauge
- Scissors
- Bowl
- Sheet moss
- Potting soil
- Plant
- Fishing filament
Step-by-Step Instructions
To begin, cut a 20-inch length of wire and unravel 20 more inches from the spool, leaving the wire attached.
Twist the loose piece around the center of the attached piece to form an X, then lay it across the bowl.
Next, place a large piece of moss over the wires and press it down into the bowl to make room for your plant.
Add a handful of soil, and then set your plant in the center of the bowl.
Tie the ends of the cut wire at the top of the root ball to secure it in place.
Gently lift the plant and moss out of the bowl, then continue winding the spooled wire around the moss until it’s secure.
To finish, cut the wire and tuck it into the moss.
You can now display your kokedama by hanging it from a filament or placing it in a decorative dish.
Choosing the Best Plants for Your Kokedama
While most houseplants can be used for kokedama, choosing plants that match your specific growing conditions is essential.
Plants like pothos or snake plants are ideal if you have limited light.
However, if you have plenty of light, you can opt for plants like philodendrons and peperomias.
Research the watering needs of your chosen plant to ensure you’re providing the right amount of moisture.
Caring for Your Kokedama
To keep your kokedama thriving, you’ll need to water it periodically.
Set the moss ball in a water bowl and allow it to “drink” up the water for 5-10 minutes as needed.
Then, remove it and return it to its usual spot. After watering, the kokedama should be noticeably heavier, so check on it regularly.
Remember to follow the individual care needs of your plant, as some prefer a drier medium.
Most houseplants appreciate bright, indirect light, but remember that the moss can dry quickly in direct sunlight.
Following these simple steps and tips, you can create a beautiful and unique kokedama that adds natural elegance to your home.
With its space-saving design and ability to be hung from the ceiling, it’s the perfect way to bring a piece of nature indoors.
