The Kokedama or ‘moss ball’ has its roots in Japan; they’re a cheerful addition to any eco-stylish home or office space and are so easy to make with our step-by-step guide below. They make excellent, enviro-friendly gifts, so buy enough of everything to make a few and gift them to your green buddies.

Below we make a hanging version, but this mini, self-contained ‘garden’ can also be set in a decorative dish as a table centrepiece or on a shelf.

What you’ll need…

peat soil (or any clay-rich soil)
Reliance potting mix
sheet moss or sphagnum moss
clear fishing line or black twine
cotton thread
small plant suitable for indoors (we used a Pellaea Rotundifolia also called a button fern)
water
scissors

Step 1

Measure the peat and potting soils in a ratio of 80/20 respectively and then combine in a large mixing bowl (note: the measurements you select will depend on the size Kokedama you want to make).

Add a little water and combine until you have a thick, clay-like consistency out of which you can form a small ball that doesn’t split apart. You may need to add more water or soil as you mix.

Step 2

Press an indentation into the ball that is large enough to hold your plant. Shake any excess soil from the roots and then place into the hole. Re-shape the ball around the plant.

Step 3

Break off pieces of the dried sheet or sphagnum moss and wrap around the soil ball, securing with the cotton thread.

This step may require two sets of hands – the moss needs to be layered around the ball, creating a cushion, while the thread is wound tightly over the moss to keep it from falling apart.

Step 4

Finally, wrap your choice of twine or fishing line around the Kokedama, leaving a longer cross-section that you can hang the plant up with. Tie off the ends and suspend near a window or an area of your choice.

Hang up in your desired spot and voila!

To keep your Kokedama content, dip the ball into a bowl of water about twice a month for succulents and weekly for indoor plants and allow to drip dry.

Loved this DIY project? See more of our Weekend Projects to keep you busy.