Kokedama is the name of a Japanese technique, which allows ornamental plants to be obtained using a ball of moss; this is even indicated by its name, since “Koke” means moss and “Dama”, ball
These are small balls of moss that support different bushes, small trees, floral and wild plants, which are, at first glance, an object that completely modifies any everyday space, and can be placed in any environment or hung directly in the garden.
This technique also offers a simpler alternative to bonsai – easy to grow – even for people who don’t have a lot of time to care for plants.
Although traditionally the moss was used to make the kokedamas, at present WE MUST CONSERVE THE MOSS since it has a vital importance within the ecosystems within which it develops. In fact, in countries like Mexico, measures have been taken and outlawed its marketing.
“By buying moss we are facilitating illegal extraction, the deterioration of forests, the erosion of forests, the reduction of biodiversity” Paloma Neumann, researcher of the Greenpeace Megacities project
Don’t worry, in Bioguide we will be giving you a very good sustainable alternative to moss. Keep reading…
Kokedamas made with succulents on display
Origin: the direct descendants of Bonsai
It is usually said that the Kokedama it is the direct descendant of Bonsai, and there is much truth in it, since both techniques share many characteristics. Above all, they have in common that in both cases the plants grow in foliage but not in size.
But the Kokedama It is much easier to perform and at the same time, it has a much more relaxed maintenance. So unlike Bonsai, anyone can make their own “moss ball” at home.
Benefits: takes up little space and is therapeutic
One of the main benefits of Kokedama It takes up very little space. That is why it is an ideal plant for small interiors, such as apartments or flats.
Of course, there are many stores that sell these types of plants. But doing it at home, in addition to being entertaining and cheaper, also has a therapeutic component. In general, contact with the earth already generates a certain relaxation.
Making these plants without pots is more like a ritual than a gardening exercise, and has often been used therapeutically. It is, at the same time, a challenge and a mechanical technique, but above all it is a way of making something alive with your own hands.
In addition, like any plant, it allows you to purify the environment, lift your spirits and even reduce stress.
Species recommended to do kokedamas
The truth is that most plants can function made kokedama, but still some species are particularly recommended for it. Especially for being strong and durable.
These are some of the ones that give the best results:
ribbons
The plants of the tapes species are small and hanging, very bright and easy to care for. They are perfect for kokedamas especially for its resistance, but also because they are very beautiful.
ivy
Ivy is a climbing plant, which grows just as healthy indoors as it does outdoors. They are especially recommended for kokedamas pendants.
succulents
Succulents or succulents are ideal for this type of garden work because they are very resistant and do not need too much water. This allows them to last longer with less care.
They are the most recommended if you have little consistency in caring for your plants. In addition to being so beautiful!
ferns
Ferns are another plant that looks very pretty in kokedamas, since they are super leafy and decorative. In addition, they are indoor plants that do not take exhaustive care.
Necessary elements
A plant
As we said before, it is convenient to choose those that are more resistant, although any works. It is recommended that it be a small plant with little development.
Mix of substrates
You should know that the ball in which the plant is contained is not simple soil, but a mixture of different substrates.
The proportion more or less is 70% soil (if it is peat, so much the better); 25% clay (it is what hardens and contains moisture) and 5% perlite.
If you can, you can also use a special substrate for bonsai called Akadama.
Moss – coconut fiber
As we have already established, we will not be using moss in our instructions. However, we must look for an alternative, since it is essential to maintain the humidity of the Kokedama and that the plant can live longer quietly.
This is where the Coconut Fiber comes in. It has similar characteristics in terms of water absorption with the added benefit of being much more sustainable.
Thread
Preferably cotton and, if you are interested in not noticing its presence, choose it brown in color
How to do them Kokedamas Step by Step
1. Make a ball of mud
How to make a kokedamastep 1: assemble a ball of clay with your hands
Moisten the mixture of substrates and “knead” it until you get a consistent mud. Do not overdo it, because if the mixture is too liquid you will not be able to obtain the ball that is needed. So go putting the water very little by little.
Once the soil is the right consistency (muddy but not hard), roll it into a ball (actually the round shape is a tradition and you can also make it square, or whatever you like).
2. Make the hole for the plant
At the top of your clay ball, make a hole where you will place the plant. Keep in mind that the ideal is that the plant is well centered.
Place the plant carefully and cover the empty parts with a little more soil.
3. Circle the kokedama COCONUT FIBER
Use the coconut fiber to make a kind of mat or sheet, and then cover the ball of earth with it. To make it firm, use the cotton thread. Hold the fiber with it, and give it several turns. Thus, you will ensure that your plant is firm and contained.
At the end you must surround the ball with thread so that it holds better.
4. Put it at home
Now it only remains to find where to locate your beautiful plant. You will bring joy to your home!
Kokedama care
Kokedamas are rather simple care plants, but there are some recommendations that it is important that you keep in mind if you want to have the plant healthy and beautiful for longer.
1. Do not expose it to direct sun
If the coconut fiber dries out too much, it stops fulfilling its function of keeping the plant moist, and it would end up drying out. That is why it is recommended to keep the kokedama indoors, or outdoors in the shade.
2. Irrigation
To water the kokedama, you have to submerge the coconut fiber ball in a container with water; it should completely cover the ball, but not go much higher. You will see bubbles coming out of the fiberball: leave it submerged until it stops.
Then, remove the plant from the container and let it drain until all the excess water is removed.
You should never squeeze the kokedama so that it drains faster, because you can weigh it down and ruin it. You must do it naturally.
Once it has completely drained, as the coconut fiber maintains moisture, it can go several days without being watered.
3. Use spray to spray the plant
Especially if you live in a dry climate or a very hot place, you can mist the plant and the fiber ball with water through a spray. In this way you will maintain the humidity of the plant for longer.
You can add fertilizer diluted in the water to make the spray more nutritious.
Remember that you should not expose the kokedama to direct sunlight, and if you do, you should not spray it with spray because it can burn.
4. Pruning
After the blooms, prune the plant trimming the dry parts and the parts where all the flowers have fallen. Leave the parts that are totally healthy.
Have you ever made a kokedama? Would you dare to do it now? Tell us about your experience in the comments!
Sources:
homemania
Kokedamas House
green ecology