DIY Kokedama String Gardens

Over the last few years, the Japanese art of Kokedama has become increasingly popular. Kokedama means literally, "moss ball," and it's easy to see why! These cute plants have their root systems removed, introduced to new soil, bound and bonsaied into a neat little ball.

To create this DIY Kokedama String Garden, you will need:

- a green or flowering plant

- sheet moss

- twine

- scissors

- paper towel

- a small paintbrush if desired

Select a section of sheet moss that is slightly larger than the approximate size of your succulent. Lay the moss soil side up in the palm of your hand. Ensure any holes naturally occurring in the moss are covered so the soil will not escape.

Place the succulent inside the well of soil, and begin to gently curl the moss over the mound of soil. Once you have the moss securely fashioned around the moss, soil, and succulent, use small fronds to support the sides of the succulent from any breakage.

Beginning at the sides of the moss ball, begin to wrap twine around the widest part of the moss ball. In concentric circles, continue to wind the twine around the ball.

Ensure pressure is applied evenly when wrapping the moss ball to keep a round shape. You can reshape the ball as you go, and add small portions of moss to areas in need of extra padding. Turn your moss ball continuously as you wrap the twine. To finish, find an inconspicuous line of twine and double knot.

Tuck in any loose twine. Use scissors to poke it far enough into the moss ball that it will not come loose.

To keep things neat, brush off any messy soil with a paintbrush. And there you have it, the first addition to your Kokedama String Garden! How cute is that?

Flowering plants such as Geranium can also be used in Kokedama String Gardens. To prevent any damage to the flowers or leaves, protect it by wrapping with a paper towel while you wrap the base in moss.

If you'd prefer to place your Kokedama on a table, choose a low container or bowl and use small stones or other nonperishable materials such as shells, glass, or sand to hold it in place.

How to Make Hanging Plant Baskets Lined with Moss

To hang your Kokedama string garden, attach a piece of twine to your moss ball. Experiment with the placement of twine, and the angles at which the Kokedama is displayed for fun effects.

Tip: Water your hanging Kokedama by removing it from its twine, and submerging the bottom half in a bowl of water. Allow excess water to drain off before replacing the twine. Water your sitting Kokedama by placing a small amount of water at the bottom of the container so it can be wicked up by the moss.

Photography by Kerry Lawrence Photography

Florals and Styling by The Vancouver Flower School