Home Grown

Nurture your green thumb— and get your hands dirty—with three DIYs perfect for plant lovers

- BY CARMEN DE LA PAZ

Kokedama Planters This traditional Japanese technique turns everyday houseplants into living sculptures Kokedama, or “moss ball” in Japanese, is a centuries-old garden art that’s enjoying a modern revival in Western homes.

The technique involves wrapping a plant’s root system in a ball of soil, then covering it with moss to create an organic sculptural display. Suspended with clear fishing line, kokedama planters can appear to float—adding a unique touch of zen and artistry to any space.

When selecting a plant, look for varieties that prefer part to full shade. I used an elephant ear, a ficus tree bonsai and a ponytail palm; other great options include orchids, African violets, ivy and spider plants.

There’s a bit of a learning curve, but once you make your first moss ball, you’ll find it’s surprisingly fun (and easy) to keep making more.

1 MIX THE SOIL AND FORM A BALL

Mix 1 part bonsai soil, 1 part peat moss and ½ part potting soil. This combination creates good drainage and aeration, which prevents root rot, supports moisture retention and allows the roots to stay moist between waterings. Add small amounts of water as you go and combine until the soil clumps together.

The mix is right when you press it in your hand and it stays together in a tight shape. Press and form the soil into a ball 5 to 6 in. in dia.

2 PREPARE THE PLANT

Clean off as much of the potting soil around the roots of your plant as possible so you can easily tuck the root ball into the soil ball in the next step. Do this over a tray or bucket for easy cleanup.