Kokedama Care

Kokedama is a Japanese word that literally translates into “moss ball”. The art of binding plants into kokedama string gardens dates back centuries, to the Edo era in Japan (around 1600 AD). Kokedama is also called poor man’s bonsai. We love kokedama for their simplicity and versatility. They’re ideal for small spaces, live for years, and never have to be repotted.

Watering

Soak: Depending on the size of your kokedama, fill a bowl, bucket or sink with room temperature water. Place your kokedama in the water, plant side up. Push the moss ball down so that it is fully submerged and begins to absorb water. Allow to soak for 10-25 minutes, or until fully saturated with water. Remove kokedama from the water, and gently squeeze the moss ball to allow excess water to drain. Allow kokedama to drip dry in a colander before bringing it back to its home.

Mist: Many kokedama appreciate misting in addition to soaking. Use a bottle that casts a fine mist and spray on and around plant foliage. Take care to mist in the morning, when the light is gentle, so that the plant is not sun burned.

Determining When to Water

Feel the weight of the ball. If the ball feels heavy, no water is needed. If it feels light, soak the ball per the above instruction. Watering frequency will vary based on where the ball is located, but max amount would be 1-2 times per week.

Feeding

During spring and summer, fertilize your kokedama monthly with a liquid, indoor plant fertilizer at 1/2 the recommended concentration. Simply mix the fertilizer into the water and soak or mist as usual.

Leaf Browning

Kokedama are susceptible to over-and under-watering just like any other potted plant. Leaf browning and crisping around edges tends to indicate under-watering. A brown “mushiness” of the leaves or stems, black stems at the base, and leaf-yellowing tends to indicate over-watering. Remember; all plants require less water during dormancy (fall and winter), and more during periods of active growth (spring and summer).