Kokedama

Kokedama

Lesson Summary

• Podocarpus is often used as an evergreen bonsai.
• Bonsai wire is wrapped around the stem of the Podocarpus and is used to adjust the shape.
• I take Sphagnum moss and packs it around the root ball.
• This moss acts as a biological sponge.
• I cut off one leg of a pair of nylon tights, placing the leg over a glass receptacle.
• Put some moss into the base of the nylon tights and lower the bonsai into it.
• Nylon tights are necessary, as they are synthetic and will keep for longer, preventing the project from breaking down.
• I take the ends of the stocking and folds it back on itself.
• I wrap the polyester thread around the bonsai's base.
• A polyester thread is used as it doesn't rot.
• I recommend a layer of 0.5 to one centimetre of keto clay.
• Bryum argentium is applied on top of the keto clay. This is because it is a very drought-resistant moss, sealing moisture in but tolerant of lots of air movement.
• Keto clay acts as a sticky base holding the moss and soil together.
• Moss grows best in the winter, so it's a great time to gather it and establish it.
• Once the moss is on the Keto clay, wrap it with polyester thread again.
• The great thing about polyester is that it comes in pretty much every colour.
• Make sure the moss has full contact with the keto clay beneath.
• The large Petri dishes are 18cm.
• I use a Podocarpus as it can handle a bit of drying out.
• Keep the kokedama outdoors ideally for around a month and allow it to establish, then bring it indoors.
• You should keep the kokedama in a low, shallow dish.
• Water the kokedama by misting it with water.

Equipment Used

• Pair of nylon tights (stockings)
• Black bonsai wire
• Polyester thread
• Sphagnum moss
• Keto clay (available online from bonsai suppliers)
• Giant petri dish

Plants Used

• Podocarpus (bonsai)
• Bryum argenteum (pavement moss)