How to Water a Kokedama Plant

Kokedama is a unique style of planting that originated in Japan. It involves encasing the plant roots in a ball of soil and moss, which is then wrapped in string or twine. These "moss balls" can be hung or placed on a dish for display. But one question that often comes up for kokedama plant owners is how to water them properly. Here are some tips on how to water a kokedama plant:

1. Soak the moss ball

The best way to water a kokedama plant is to soak the moss ball completely in a bowl or bucket of water. This allows the soil to absorb water from all sides, giving the roots a thorough watering. It's important to leave the kokedama in the water until the moss ball feels heavy and saturated, which usually takes around ten minutes. Afterward, gently squeeze the moss ball to remove any excess water, but make sure not to squeeze too hard, or you could damage the roots.

2. Use room-temperature water

When you're soaking the kokedama plant, make sure to use room-temperature water. Cold water can shock the roots, and hot water can damage or kill them. Room-temperature water is gentle and helps the plant absorb water more easily.

3. Water according to the plant's needs

How often you need to water a kokedama plant depends on the type of plant and the environment it's in. Some plants require more water than others, and some need more sunlight or humidity. Before watering your kokedama plant, do some research on the type of plant you have and how much water it needs. You can also check the moss ball's weight and feel – if it's light and dry, it's time to water, and if it's heavy and moist, it doesn't need watering yet.

4. Don't let it dry out completely

While it's important not to over-water your kokedama plant, you also don't want to let it dry out completely. If the moss ball becomes completely dry, the plant could go into shock and its roots could die. Make sure the moss ball is consistently moist, without becoming waterlogged.

5. Consider using a spray bottle

If you're worried about over-watering your kokedama plant, or you have a plant that doesn't require much water, you can try using a spray bottle to mist the moss ball. This can help keep the moss ball moist without drowning the roots. However, make sure to mist regularly to keep the moss ball from drying out completely.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your kokedama plant remains healthy and thriving. Remember to give your plant the water it needs, not too much and not too little, and it will reward you with its beauty and vitality.