Discover Kokedama at Oki Education Center

Often described as “bonsai’s wilder cousin,” kokedama involves sculpting a ball of soil. [Photo by Juan Domenech]

A workshop on the ancient tradition of kokedama, the Japanese art of growing ornamental plants in handcrafted, moss-covered soil balls, will be held Saturday, July 26, at the Morikami Museum’s Oki Education Center.

Often described as “bonsai’s wilder cousin,” kokedama involves sculpting a ball of soil, enveloping it in moss and wrapping it tightly with string to form a striking, self-contained vessel for growing orchids, succulents and other ornamental plants. The result is a living sculpture — organic, elegant, and ideal for displaying on a tabletop or hanging from a string.

Ad

The hands-on workshop will guide attendees through the process of kokedama, with each participant creating two regular-sized moss balls and one smaller one to take home. No experience is necessary.

Two sessions are available July 26:

·       Session 1: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

·       Session 2: 2 to 4:30 p.m.

The workshop fee is $65, plus a $35 materials fee payable in cash to the instructor. Bring an apron, a small stack of newspaper and a shoe-sized box (plastic or cardboard) for safely transporting your creations home.

The workshop is part of a series hosted by the Oki Education Center to introduce a variety of Japanese traditions. These one- and two-day classes are open to adults and teens 15 and older. Exceptions for younger students may be made on a case-by-case basis; contact the education program coordinator at 561-233-1367 for more information.

Ad

Advance registration is required and closes three business days before the workshop. Museum and garden admission is included.

To register or get more information, visit morikami.org.