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| Mr. Tran Cao Son meticulously shaping Kokedama |
Impressive
As a pioneer in bringing Kokedama closer to plant lovers in Hue Ancient Capital, Mr. Tran Cao Son, owner of Khung Cua So Garden in Vy Da Ward, shared: “In Hue, Kokedama remains a relatively new art form. Originating in Japan, it offers several advantages such as easy care, environmental friendliness, and suitability for the increasingly popular minimalist lifestyle”. Therefore, although Kokedama has been introduced to business for just over 3 months, Mr. Son’s shop has already received considerable interest and positive feedback from customers.
Kokedama makes an immediate impression with its distinctive form. Instead of being planted in traditional pots, the plants are grown in spheres wrapped in moss, then either suspended or placed on ceramic dishes. Common choices for this art form include ferns, bald cypress, pond cypress, begonias, and oxalis. These plants typically thrive in humid conditions, require minimal light, and grow relatively slowly, allowing them to maintain a compact size, well-suited to modern living spaces.
Creating a complete Kokedama involves several meticulous and skill-intensive steps. Mr. Son shared: “We begin by blending a base mixture of moss soil, volcanic stones, and worm compost. This mixture is then shaped into a ball, hollowed out to place the plant inside, and firmly packed. It is subsequently wrapped in a layer of sphagnum moss, which helps retain moisture effectively. Finally, the moss ball is secured with fine thread or fishing line to maintain its shape”.
Eye-catching
Beyond a decorative item, Kokedama derives its distinctive charm from its minimalist form paired with meticulous detailing. The soothing green hues of moss and green foliage blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious composition. Whether placed on a ceramic dish or suspended in the air; placed in a corner of a room, set on a windowsill, or hung from a porch, Kokedama evokes the feeling of a miniature garden in the palm of one’s hand. By doing so, it brings a sense of calm, reduces stress, and supports better concentration.
Currently, Kokedama products are typically priced from VND 90,000 to 200,000, depending on the type of plant and size. They are often accompanied by decorative accessories such as handcrafted ceramic plates and trays. “With this art form, we use Bau Truc pottery, one of Vietnam’s ancient ceramic villages, as well as Japanese ceramics. Beyond their rustic and simple beauty, these ceramic pieces are often one of a kind, highlighting the unique charm of each Kokedama while enhancing the personalized experience for customers,” Son added.
Kokedama is fairly easy to care for, but a little attention goes a long way in keeping it looking fresh. To water it, simply soak the entire moss ball in water for about 10 minutes, then take it out and let it drain. In most cases, a Kokedama can stay in good condition for 2-3 months. When the leaves begin to lose their color, it’s a sign the plant is running low on nutrients. At that point, the moss ball should be refreshed by replacing its inner mixture of soil, volcanic material, and organic fertilizer to keep the plant healthy.
Choosing Kokedama to decorate her office, Ms. Phan Thi Hoai Nhi, a customer from An Cuu Ward, shared: “Kokedama attracts me most by its unique look and aesthetic appeal. The biggest advantage, in my opinion, is how easy it is to care for, just soak it in water, that’s all. In busy daily life, these moss balls are truly a convenient, visually pleasing, and relaxing decorative solution”.
Beyond introducing a novel trend in ornamental gardening, Kokedama’s presence in Hue also mirrors a rising trend toward green and minimalist lifestyle in Hue Ancient Capital. Driven by the creativity and passion of young people like Mr. Tran Cao Son, these modest moss spheres are quietly easing the sweltering feel of summer, bringing a sense of coolness and nature into everyday living spaces.