Template
How to Make a Hanging Kokedama String Garden
Kokedama, which literally means "moss ball" in Japanese, are a type of bonsai that not only look adorable but also are an easy DIY project to tackle in one afternoon. We had Robynne Heymans and Mike Madden, owners of Embark Garden, a New York-based plant design company, share their tips for how to make these hanging planters in five simple steps.
How to Make a Kokedama
START WITH:
Bonsai soil
Peat moss
Water
Small plant
Sheet moss (preserved or living)
String
RECOMMENDED PLANTS:
Waffle plant
Balfour Aralia
Pothos
Philodendron
Asparagus fern
Staghorn fern
Polka Dot plant
Bird's Nest fern
"Rex" Begonia
PLANTS TO AVOID:
Flowering plants (such as orchids)
Succulents
Maidenhair fern
Ming Aralia
STEPS:
STEP 1: Mix half bonsai soil and half peat moss and stir in enough water until damp.
STEP 2: Form a ball around plant roots with the soil mixture
STEP 3: Wrap with sheet moss.
STEP 4: Wrap and tie with string.
STEP 5: Attach another loop of string to hang.
How to Take Care of Your Kokedama
Mist daily or place on a tray of pebbles and water for humidity.
Water once every three to five days depending on the amount of light and humidity in your home. When the ball dries out or becomes slightly lighter it's time to water again. Don't wait until the leaves droop!
Water under a tap or in a shallow bowl of water until ball feels heavy. Allow to drip in sink before hanging it up again.
Place your kokedama directly in a north-facing window or two to three feet from a south, west, or east-facing window. They need bright, indirect light to grow.
Keep away from the radiator in winter.
Clip off any dead leaves.
Expect to repot once every year or two as the plant grows.
This creates a private checklist in your account.