Plants that float? Kokedama makes it possible! The decorative moss balls bring a piece of nature into the living room and are real eye-catchers for any home. But how does this Japanese technique work and how can you create a ‘moss ball garden’ yourself?
What is a kokedama and where does it come from?
Kokedama is Japanese (Japanese 苔玉) and simply means ‘moss ball’. And that's exactly what they are, fist-sized balls of moss from which a plant grows, without any pot. Originally known as the ‘bonsai of the common people’, they are rooted in the bonsai tradition of Japan.
For centuries, bonsai have symbolised the beauty and evanescence of nature - an expression of the wabi-sabi concept, which values the imperfect and ephemeral. However, as bonsais are expensive to buy and maintain, Kokedama became an affordable alternative to experience nature in miniature.
Today, the moss balls have left their traditional appearance behind. They decorate modern homes as floating eye-catchers - almost like the floating mountains from ‘Avatar’.
Make your own Kokedama
The moss spheres can be made in any desired size. However, if you want to do as the Japanese do, you should choose small plants. These materials are required:
- Soil - A mixture of potting compost and clay provides the necessary moisture and stability.
- Moss sheets - Fresh moss from a flower shop or garden centre is best. Do not take the moss from the forest, as this can harm the environment.
- Natural twine - To hold the moss ball together and create a natural look.
- Scissors
- water
- Plant of your choice - see next point
Selecting plants: Which plants are best for Kokedama?
Not every plant is suitable for a Kokedama. However, with the right choice, caring for it is easy. Small plants that require little water are ideal. Proven options are::
Mini indoor plants: robust plants such as green lilies (Chlorophytum) or climbing plants such as the heart-leaf philodendron (Philodendron scandens) and ivy (Scindapsus) are perfect. They also thrive in indirect light. The philodendron grows quickly and gives the kokedama a lush appearance, while the ivy with its elegant tendrils looks particularly elegant.
Succulents: These frugal plants store water in their thick leaves and are ideal for sunny locations such as windowsills. A kokedama made from succulents is easy to care for and requires little water. Their fleshy leaves even signal when they need water - they soften when their reserves are depleted.
Spring bloomers: Flowers such as hyacinths or daffodils are excellent candidates for kokedamas as they require little soil. They add colour to the house, especially in spring, and can be moved to the garden together with the moss after flowering, where they will sprout again the following year.
Fern plants: Ferns, especially smaller species, make wonderful kokedama plants. They prefer shade or indirect light and benefit from the natural moisture that the moss stores. A kokedama with ferns looks particularly airy and can be placed in a variety of ways in the room.
Strawberry plants: Strawberries are also suitable for outdoor areas. A kokedama with strawberries is an cool idea for the balcony. The plants are easy to care for and reward you with sweet fruit in summer.
Kurzanleitung:
picture: «Ron Orp / Nadine Kägi»
- preparing the plant: Carefully remove the soil from the roots of the plant. This makes it easier to shape and wrap the moss ball later. Long roots can be shortened.
- shape the soil: Mix the soil mixture with a little water until it reaches a mouldable but not mushy consistency. Then press the mixture around the roots of the plant to form a ball about the size of a fist.
- form a moss ball: Place the plant in the centre of the moss and place the moss around the ball of earth. Press down well so that everything sticks together.
- wrap: Wrap the moss ball tightly with natural yarn until it holds together well. The yarn provides support and gives the Kokedama a natural look.
Get creative and design your own Kokedama
Our Kokedama workshop is the perfect opportunity to express yourself creatively - ideal for team events or a relaxed, creative afternoon with friends. All materials are provided and we guide you step by step through the technique. Tips on care and watering will also be shared.
👉 Sign up now and create your own floating oasis!
