Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Kokedama, orders, care and more.
What is a Kokedama?
A kokedama is a living plant whose roots are wrapped in a ball of soil and moss instead of a pot, bound with string. The name means “moss ball” in Japanese. It’s part garden, part sculpture, and each one is made by hand, so no two are exactly alike.
Is it real, living moss?
Yes. The outer layer is living moss wrapped around a soil core that holds the plant’s roots. With proper care it stays green and lush, and it’s part of what makes each piece feel alive rather than decorative.
How big are they?
Sizes vary by plant, since each kokedama is made by hand around a living plant. If you need a piece to fit a particular spot or want something custom, just ask and we’ll let you know what we have.
How long does a Kokedama last?
With proper care, a healthy kokedama typically thrives for two to three years before the plant outgrows its ball. At that point it can be refreshed with new soil and moss, or potted up, and the plant carries on. With good care, yours can be a long-lived part of your home.
Are they difficult to care for?
Not at all, once you know the rhythm. The most important habit is watering by weight: lift the ball, and if it feels light it’s ready for a soak. We include a care guide with every kokedama, and each plant type has its own simple routine.
Which type is best for a beginner?
Our tropical kokedama are the most forgiving and the easiest place to start, happy in bright indirect light with a weekly soak. Ferns need more humidity and moisture, and succulents need a drier, more hands-off rhythm. We’re happy to help you pick the right match for your space and habits.
How do I care for my Kokedama?
Each kokedama comes with a full care card covering watering, light, and feeding for your specific plant. The short version: water by weight, give it the right light for its type, and let the plant tell you what it needs. You can also reach out anytime with questions. Visit our Care Guide for additional details.
Where should I place my Kokedama
That depends on the plant. Tropicals want bright, indirect light, ferns prefer shadier and more humid spots like a bright bathroom, and succulents want the sunniest place you have. Your care guide spells out the ideal spot for your variety and also visit our Care Guide for additional details.
Where should I place my Kokedama
That depends on the plant. Tropicals want bright, indirect light, ferns prefer shadier and more humid spots like a bright bathroom, and succulents want the sunniest place you have. Your care guide spells out the ideal spot for your variety and also visit our Care Guide for additional details.
Why is the moss turning brown?
Moss can dry out or go dormant and brown slightly, which is usually harmless and recovers once moisture and humidity are restored. If it stays brown or the plant itself looks unhappy, get in touch and we’ll help you sort out what’s going on.
Are Kokedama safe for pets?
It depends on the plant inside. Many ferns are considered pet-friendly, while some tropicals like pothos and philodendron can be toxic to cats and dogs if chewed, and succulents vary by species. If you have curious pets, tell us and we’ll point you toward a safer option or confirm whether a specific plant is a good fit for your home.
Do you deliver?
Yes. We hand-deliver to customers throughout the San Diego area, so your kokedama arrives healthy and ready to display, with none of the stress that comes from being boxed up and shipped. If you’re not sure whether you’re in our delivery area, just reach out and we’ll let you know.
Why delivery instead of shipping?
A kokedama is a living thing, and shipping is hard on plants: days in a dark box, rough handling, and temperature swings. By delivering locally, we make sure yours arrives in the same condition it left our hands, healthy and ready for its new home.
Do you make Kokedama for gifts?
We do, and they make a wonderful one. A handmade living plant is a thoughtful, lasting gift, and we can deliver it locally so it arrives healthy and fresh. Let us know if it’s a gift and we’ll take extra care with the presentation.
Can I request a specific plant or style?
Quite possibly. Because every piece is made by hand, we can often accommodate preferences for plant type or look. Reach out with what you have in mind and we’ll tell you what’s possible.
Can I pot it later if I want to?
Yes. If you’d ever like to move your plant into a traditional pot, you can unwrap the kokedama and pot it up like any other plant. Many people enjoy them as kokedama for years first.
Still have a question? Get in touch. We’re a small, hands-on studio and we’re always happy to help your Kokedama thrive.