Light:

Bright, indirect light is ideal. These pieces also perform well under quality grow lights. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially through glass.

Water:

Submerge the moss base in room-temperature water approximately every 5–10 days, depending on season and indoor conditions. Allow excess water to drain fully before rehanging.

You can evaluate hydration by lifting the piece — dry moss feels very light and slightly crisp, while hydrated moss feels noticeably heavier.

A gentle liquid fertilizer, such as an orchid formula, may be added to the soak every other watering during active growth. If using a standard houseplant fertilizer, apply at half-strength no more than once per month to prevent salt buildup.

Humidity:

Moderate household humidity is sufficient. Higher humidity reduces drying frequency and supports optimal vitality.

Placement:

Position away from direct heat sources, vents, and prolonged direct sunlight, as these accelerate drying. Warmer or brighter environments may require more frequent watering.

Notes:

Mounted botanical works are designed to dry between waterings. Orchids, hoyas, and many epiphytic plants benefit from this cycle. During active growth, a light foliar mist using a diluted orchid fertilizer may be applied occasionally to support foliage and increase humidity, though this is optional.

Observe the plant variety and adjust rhythm as needed.

— Suspended & Display Kokedama —


Light:

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid prolonged direct sun, especially during afternoon hours. Some varieties tolerate lower light, though growth may slow.

Water:

Submerge the moss ball in room-temperature water approximately every 5–10 days, depending on season and indoor conditions. Allow it to soak for about 10–15 minutes, then let excess water drain fully before rehanging or placing back on display.

If the kokedama is accidentally left soaking longer, it will not be harmed. Simply allow it to drain thoroughly before returning it to its location.

Hydration can be assessed by weight — a dry kokedama feels noticeably light and slightly firm.

During active growth, fertilize lightly about once per month using a diluted liquid fertilizer appropriate for the plant variety. If fertilizing more frequently, ensure the solution is gentle and well diluted.

Humidity:

Moderate household humidity is sufficient. Increased humidity reduces drying frequency and benefits tropical varieties.

Placement:

Keep away from direct heat sources, vents, and prolonged direct sunlight. Warmer or brighter environments may require more frequent watering.

Notes:

Suspended and display kokedama are designed to dry slightly between waterings. Over time, the moss layer may thin or dry more quickly. If you notice the ball requiring significantly more frequent watering than when first created, additional moss can be added to refresh both hydration capacity and appearance.

Visible roots emerging through the moss are normal, especially with vigorous growers such as spider plants. This may indicate the plant is filling the moss ball and could benefit from re-mossing within six to twelve months.

Observe the plant and adjust care rhythm as needed.

— Reservoir-Style Kokedama —


Light:

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid prolonged direct sun, especially during afternoon hours.

Water:

Reservoir-style kokedama are designed to sit partially in water or within a shallow dish that allows moisture to wick upward into the moss ball.

Maintain a small amount of water at the base, allowing the moss to absorb moisture gradually. Avoid keeping the entire ball continuously submerged.

Allow the reservoir to dry briefly between refills to prevent oversaturation.

During active growth, fertilize lightly about once per month using a diluted liquid fertilizer appropriate for the plant variety.

Humidity:

Moderate household humidity is sufficient. Increased humidity supports tropical varieties and reduces evaporation from the reservoir.

Placement:

Keep away from direct heat sources and prolonged direct sunlight, as these will increase evaporation and watering frequency.

Notes:

Reservoir-style kokedama are intentionally designed for plant varieties that prefer more consistent moisture, such as ferns and other humidity-loving foliage. The reservoir supports longer hydration intervals and provides a more stable environment for plants that do not tolerate extended drying cycles.

If the moss ball begins drying significantly faster than when first created, refreshing the outer moss layer may restore hydration capacity. Visible roots may appear over time and are a natural sign of plant growth.

— Closed Terrarium —

Light:

Bright, indirect light is ideal. A bright window is generally suitable during cooler seasons. In warmer months, avoid prolonged direct sun exposure, as closed terrariums can overheat quickly behind glass.

Water:

Closed terrariums require minimal watering. Moisture naturally recirculates within the ecosystem.

Each terrarium includes a drainage layer at the base. Monitor this layer periodically. When the reservoir appears completely dry, add a small amount of distilled or filtered water — typically enough to create approximately ½–1 inch of visible water at the bottom, depending on vessel size.

Maintain the reservoir at roughly half capacity rather than fully saturating it.

Distilled water is strongly recommended, particularly when moss is present, as mineral-heavy tap water may negatively affect moss health over time.

Humidity:

Humidity inside a closed terrarium is self-regulating and remains elevated. Light condensation cycles are normal and indicate a balanced system.

Placement:

Keep in a stable indoor environment away from heat vents, radiators, and cold drafts. Excess heat increases evaporation and may disrupt the ecosystem balance.

Maintenance & Notes:

Occasional leaf drop is normal. Plants cycle growth naturally, and individual leaves may yellow or decline over time. Remove fallen or decaying foliage promptly to maintain airflow and appearance.

Closed terrariums may require periodic trimming to maintain scale and balance. If plants become tall or leggy, trim just above a node using clean scissors. Cuttings may be replanted directly into the substrate to encourage fuller growth.

It is normal for the terrarium to look slightly altered immediately after trimming. With time, new growth will fill in and restore visual balance.

Surface mold may occasionally appear on natural wood elements. This is common in enclosed environments and does not indicate system failure. It can be gently cleaned using a cotton swab or cloth; diluted hydrogen peroxide may be used sparingly if needed.

These terrariums do not contain bioactive cleanup organisms (such as springtails or isopods). As a result, light manual maintenance may be required periodically to preserve clarity and aesthetics.

Glass may be wiped clean from the inside using a soft cloth or tissue; tweezers can assist in hard-to-reach areas. Exterior glass may be dusted as needed. Increased light exposure may accelerate algae or condensation buildup.

Do not fertilize. The substrate contains sufficient nutrients, and additional fertilizer may disrupt the ecosystem or harm moss.

Optional Enhancement:

Bioactive cleanup organisms such as springtails or isopods may be introduced to assist with natural debris breakdown and ecosystem balance. These organisms prefer humid environments and typically remain within the vessel. This is not required, but may be considered for those interested in a more self-sustaining system. Consultation is recommended before introducing bioactive elements.

— Open Terrarium —

Light:

Bright light is strongly encouraged. Succulents and cacti perform best with abundant light and may tolerate several hours of direct sun, particularly in cooler seasons.

If transitioning a plant from lower-light retail environments, gradually increase light exposure over 1–2 weeks. Sudden placement in intense sun may cause temporary scorching. This does not necessarily mean the plant is lost — affected leaves may drop, and new growth will typically adapt to the brighter conditions.

Grow lights are excellent for open terrariums and may be used to supplement or replace window light. Strong, consistent light prevents stretching and maintains compact growth.

Water:

Open terrariums require more regular watering than closed systems due to airflow and evaporation.

Use a squeeze bottle or narrow-spout watering tool to control moisture precisely. Water lightly when the substrate is dry. Add small amounts gradually rather than saturating the entire vessel.

If excess water collects at the bottom and the vessel does not have a drainage hole, gently tilt and pour out the excess. Do not allow standing water to remain.

Because these arrangements use a well-draining, airy substrate, they are resistant to overwatering but can dry more quickly. Monitor moisture levels accordingly.

During active growth, apply a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer sparingly.

Humidity:

Humidity reflects normal room conditions and is not self-contained. Increased airflow results in faster drying.

Placement:

Place in a bright, stable location. Many succulents thrive in strong light and may be moved outdoors seasonally once acclimated. If purchased directly from Luscious Leaves, most succulent varieties are grown in high light conditions. However, always confirm specific plant tolerance before placing in full outdoor sun.

Maintenance & Notes:

Remove fallen or dried leaves promptly to maintain airflow and appearance.

Succulent varieties typically grow slowly and require minimal shaping. Avoid unnecessary trimming, as structural cuts may alter the intended design. If significant reshaping is ever desired, consultation is recommended.