DIY Kokedama: How to Make a Japanese Moss Ball Garden [Infographic]

Based on the ancient Japanese art, Kokedama or “moss ball” gardens are becoming a new trend in indoor gardening. In this DIY Kokedama tutorial, you’ll learn how to create a Japanese moss ball that can be suspended in mid-air by string or fishing line, or set down in a decorative tray or bowl.

Kokedama consist of a plant with the root ball surrounded in a ball of mud, wrapped in sphagnum moss and string to hold it all together. The moss and soil ball acts as a sort of living planter, holding in the moisture and nutrients that the plant needs to survive and grow.

Contrary to what one might think, kokedama are very easy to care for—easier than a traditional potted plant! In general, all they need is a bright location such as a window to provide them with adequate light, and a 5 minute soaking about once a week.

You can get creative with your hanging garden, planting small trees, flowers and leafy greens such as ferns. Feel free to have fun with the process and try out all sorts of different plants. The process is simple and easy to do, so scroll down, read the guide, and you can be on your way to creating your own hanging garden of Babylon in no time!

Supplies you’ll need for your DIY Kokedama:

1. Sphagnum Moss or Live Moss
2. Bonsai Soil
3. A plant! Ferns like these ones are a great choice.
4. Strong string or twine that can hold the weight of the kokedama
5. Scissors
6. Spray bottle
7. A bucket or sink with a plug or stopper
8. Water!

>> Get everything you need all at once by ordering one of these Kokedama DIY Kits from Geodesium on Etsy.

That’s all you need! Now let’s get started and create your own DIY Kokedama moss ball.

If you’d like some supplementary material, here’s a great video tutorial on how to make your own DIY Kokedama by Garden Answer.

Pistils Nursery also has a fantastic Kokedama kit if you want to get started with everything you need.