Boston Flora

Tag: kokedama

  • Saturday, March 7, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm – Introduction to Kokedama

    Discover the art of kokedama, a centuries-old Japanese practice that blends horticulture and design, on Saturday, March 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Berkshire Botanical Garden. Unlike bonsai, which focuses on outdoor trees, or ikebana, which features cut flowers, kokedama are living plants, such as anthurium, orchid, peperomia, or zantedeschia, displayed in moss-and-soil spheres that can hang or sit in a dish indoors. Led by artist and horticultural therapist Brian Mikesell, this hands-on workshop will teach you to create kokedama using only natural materials (soil, moss and string). No pots, expensive ceramics or specialized tools required. Learn the techniques for crafting, displaying and caring for your kokedama, while connecting with the calming, mindful experience of nurturing plants. All materials are included, and you’ll leave with your own kokedama to enjoy at home or give as a thoughtful, handmade gift. $110 for BBG members. $140 for nonmembers.

  • Saturday, May 10, 10:00 am – 11:30 am – Kokedama

    A Japanese gardening tradition, known as the “poor man’s bonsai.” Kokedama, which translates to “moss ball,” is a centuries-old art form that celebrates the harmony between nature and design. This Massachusetts Horticultural Society May 10 workshop is centered around creating a beautiful living plant arrangement that is both decorative and unique.

    Led by Garden Educator, Melissa Pace, participants will learn techniques necessary to craft a thriving kokedama.

    • The role of substrate composition in supporting plant health and moisture retention
    • How moss functions as a natural moisture regulator.
    • The relationship between root structure, aeration, and plant stability
    • Best practices for plant selection based on growth habit, light requirements, and humidity tolerance

    Each kokedama is not only a living garden but also a captivating conversation piece. Experiment with different displays, including a shallow dish or hanging with a macramé!

    Show off your creation! We invite you to enter your kokedama in the New England Fall Flower Show this September! Either enter your kokedama from the workshop or use your new skills to create another one! Click here for details on dates and how to register. Pro Tip: Bring a box to safely transport your new creation home!

    Workshop size is limited – Preregistration here is required. $45 for Mass Hort members, $53 for nonmembers.

  • Wednesday, July 17, 10:00 am – 11:30 am – Kokedama Workshop

    A Japanese gardening tradition, known as the “poor man’s bonsai.” Kokedama, which translates to “moss ball,” is a centuries-old art form that celebrates the harmony between nature and design. This Massachusetts Horticultural Society workshop on July 17 at 10 am is centered around creating a beautiful living plant arrangement that is both decorative and unique. Led by Garden Educator, Melissa Pace, participants will learn the step-by-step process of shaping and sculpting the moss ball base. We will discuss plant selection, soil composition, and moss manipulation. Each kokedama is not only a living garden but also a captivating conversation piece, feel free to display your piece in a shallow dish or by hanging it! $40 for Mass Hort members, $53 for nonmembers. Register at www.masshort.org