Invented in Japan in the 1990s, the art of kokedama is in my opinion representative of what extreme horticulture is, a totally different and amazing way to grow plants!

On the introduction photo, this very original kokedama made with a kitchen whisk was created by Jessy Denis, owner of Inspire'zen.

Kokedama are actually spheres made of soil wrapped with moss. These soil balls act as containers to support plants roots. This original way to grow plants originated in various Japanese traditional horticultural techniques, including the art of bonsai. Kokedama are usually installed on plates, trays or flat stones, but they can also be suspended in the air with strings. It is also possible to create a hanging kokedama using kitchen utensils such as ladles, whisks, strainers and teapots!

It's easy to create a kokedama. First, mix together about two parts of potting soil – such as Pro-Mix – and one part of white or green clay – sold in natural food stores. Add some water and mix till you get a dough. Then, cover the root ball of the plant you wish to grow with this dough. Make shure to remove the pot and to let the soil surrounding the roots in place. Give a spherical shape to the dough and wrap it with green moss or sphagnum moss – sold in most flower shops. Finally, especially in the case of a hanging kokedama, it is often necessary to tie the moss to prevent the root ball falling apart.

If you want to buy a suspended kokedama, visit www.symbios3.com.