Kokedama 101: The Art of Japanese Moss Balls (And Why Your Plant Shelf Needs One)
Looking to level up your houseplant game with something totally fresh (and mossy)? Let’s talk kokedama—the gorgeous, gravity-defying Japanese plant arrangement that brings a whole new vibe to your space. Kokedama (koh-keh-DAH-mah), which literally means “moss ball,” is both a minimalist art form and a funky plant display rolled into one. Think of it as bonsai’s cooler, slightly more boho cousin.
At You Grow Girls, we’re all about finding stylish, low-key ways to turn your living space into a lush green sanctuary—and kokedama arrangements are the ultimate conversation piece. Let’s dig into what they are, how to care for them, and how to make your own!
What Is Kokedama, Anyway?
Originating from Japan, kokedama is part of the wabi-sabi aesthetic—celebrating imperfection and nature. It’s made by wrapping a plant’s root system in a ball of soil, covering it with moss, and binding it all together with twine. No pots, no plastic—just earthy elegance.
You can hang them for a floating garden effect or nestle them in a shallow dish for a more grounded, sculptural look. Either way, it’s an instant vibe upgrade.
Best Plants for Kokedama
Not all houseplants are cut out for moss ball life. The best kokedama candidates are small, slow-growing, and not too thirsty. Our faves include:
Ferns (especially maidenhair and Boston)
Pothos
Spider plants
English ivy
Mini orchids
Peace lilies
Succulents (with some extra care)
Bonus: You can mix and match for a kokedama “gallery wall” of plant babies.
How to Make Your Own Kokedama
Feeling crafty? Making a kokedama at home is easier than you’d think. Here’s your quick DIY breakdown:
You’ll need:
Your plant of choice
Bonsai soil or a mix of peat and akadama (or regular potting mix + clay)
Sheet moss (available at garden centers or online)
Cotton string, twine, or floral wire
A bowl of water
Gloves (optional but helpful)
Steps:
Prep the plant: Gently remove excess soil from the roots.
Make the soil ball: Mix soil with water until it sticks together like a mud pie. Form into a baseball-sized ball around the roots.
Wrap with moss: Cover the ball with moss, pressing gently to mold it around the shape.
Tie it up: Wrap twine around the moss ball to hold it together—go wild with crisscrossing patterns.
Hang or display: Use more string to hang it, or place in a dish for a tabletop look.
Kokedama Care Tips
We won’t lie—kokedama needs a little more TLC than your average potted plant. But it’s worth it.
Watering: Soak the whole moss ball in water for 10–15 minutes once it feels dry/light. Let it drip dry before hanging it back up.
Light: Keep it in bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh afternoon rays—especially for ferns.
Humidity: Loves a humid environment! Bathrooms or kitchens are great, or use a misting spray.
Pruning: Trim dead leaves and overgrowth to keep it neat.
Why We Love Kokedama
Kokedama arrangements are more than just trendy—they’re meditative to make, beautiful to behold, and an eco-friendly alternative to plastic pots. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a total newbie, they offer a creative outlet that connects you to nature (and looks fantastic on Instagram, let’s be honest).
So next time you're looking to bring something fresh into your home or give a green gift that wows—think moss, think magic, think kokedama.
Ready to create your own kokedama garden? Stay tuned for our upcoming DIY video tutorials, or visit our shop for curated kokedama kits made with love.
You Grow Girls
Helping you bloom, one plant at a time.
