How to make a Japanese moss ball… aka a Kokedama!

Calling all plant ladies, formerly known as cat ladies.

Just what is a Kokedama some of you might be asking? Whilst the plant craze is growing its roots across town (especially during last years lockdowns), not everyone would be familiar with this centuries old Japanese form of garden art.

It literally translates from “koke”, meaning moss and “dama”, meaning ball. Pretty simple stuff folks!

Tied in with the practice of bonsai, Kokedama involves taking the root ball of a plant and suspending it in a mud ball, which is then coated with soft green moss.

You can add that wow factor to your home by completing a Kokedama workshop at byAzumi, a bespoke floristry studio located in South Yarra. Jump in quick because the next slots are on Saturday the 22nd of May, Saturday the 26th of June and Sunday the 25th of July.

The studio is run by Azumi Ishikawa who was born in Osaka, Japan, with an instinctive awareness for the beauty in nature. Growing up, she watched her mother, an ikebana master, create floral art using local, seasonal elements.

In this workshop you’ll learn the basics of kokedama in a relaxed and inspiring space, providing you with the knowledge and skills to continue designing and making at home.

byAzumi also runs a host of other unique workshops so you’ll be making your friends green with envy (pun intended) once they suss out your pad and how strong your plant game is!

Photo Credit: byAzumi