Plant Care FAQs
Additional Plant Related Information/FAQs:
How long will my Tranquil Plant last?
If all the optimal living and growing requirements are met, your plant or bonsai friend will last indefinitely! If you need additional guidance, please consult our care guides, or contact us directly.
I'm new to the realm of indoor plants, is it difficult to look after one?
No, these indoor plants are not usually delicate (depending on your home environment) and are very easy to look after. Your watering and care routine may change depending on your home environment, for example, in hotter homes – the plant will need more regular watering, whereas in milder temperatures it will be fine to stick to the prescribed 6 to 9 days.
There will be tell-tale signs that your plant needs something like leaves sagging – they will start talking to you! For example, when the moss ball’s weight is light, it means that your plant needs watering, whereas if it is heavier it means it has water within the moss ball. We hope that you will enjoy it for many years to come.
Does the moss ball restrict the growth and health of the plant or bonsai tree?
No, not at all – it does not alter the natural life processes or growth of your new friend. So, in summary, given the right care and attention, your new plant friend will keep growing and thriving. However, please be aware that keeping your plant or bonsai friend trimmed and shaped is part of the bonsai art and culture!
Can I hang my plant?
Yes, kokedamas are known for being hung using strong string to form Japanese hanging gardens. There are many varieties of hangers for kokedamas, feel free to search around or get a string hanger from our shop!
Why is my moss ball not bubbling when I water it?
Firstly, you will need to submerge the moss ball in water completely; this will allow the moss ball to absorb water which will be marked by the bubbles surfacing. However, this phenomenon can be quite subtle – so as long as you fully submerge your moss ball, it should absorb the water it needs! Sometimes, a little squeeze on the moss ball will allow it to contract and take in more water.
Is having a plant in the house beneficial?
These plants are considered to be one of the top fresh air plants by NASA which have great benefits for your wellbeing and health; they help purify the air around you and generate more fresh oxygen for you. These plants love being indoors, all they need is water, low to medium light, some fertilising, and most importantly a little love for your new plant friend.
Where is the best place for my plant?
Our moss wrapped Kokedama prefer humid indoor environments so that the moss doesn't dry out, so a bathroom or warm kitchen could be the perfect spot. Our coconut-fibre wrapped plants are very easy going and can be placed in many different places that receive a good amount of light.
For specific plant requirements (e.g Bonsai or Palm) visit the separate 'plant care' section to find out more.
Can I re-pot my Kokedama plant or bonsai?
Yes, you may re-pot your plant or bonsai in a pot that is slightly bigger than the original soil ball. You can cut the strings holding together the moss, and place the soil ball inside a pot and fill it with soil and compost. We recommend using pots that have drainage on them, otherwise the water will sit in the pot and set in root rot which will lead to the death of the plant and/or the bonsai. Additionally, we recommend using general purpose compost for the ferns and special bonsai soil mix, or at the minimum ericaceous compost for bonsai trees. You may also buy bonsai pots in our shop!
Will ‘hard water’ affect the health my plant and/or bonsai?
Across the country, there will be ‘hardwater’ areas. The prolonged use of ‘hardwater’ or water that have a high mineral content and/or chlorine can affect the health of your plant or bonsai. We recommend, if possible, to use filtered water from your regular water filter or collect some rainwater. You can always use a mixture of both!
Mould is appearing on the moss, what should I do?
Mould growth can occur but it is rare as your plant is a living organism which also supports other living organisms; especially when you try to regenerate the moss using the green house method. Simply wipe away any mould with diluted dishwashing liquid at a ratio of 1 part dishwashing liquid to 10 parts water, and then submerge the moss ball in this water. To prevent more mould growth, move your Kokedama to a place that has more ventilation.
There are bugs in my plant or bonsai, what do I do?
Insects and bugs can be attracted to your plant or bonsai, and it is a natural process. However, not all insects are harmful, for example, earthworms are very beneficial for your plant!
In the event of finding bugs such as aphids on your plant which can be marked by shiny and sticky liquid present in the leaves (honeydew), please do not panic – it can happen and there are simple solutions to get rid of them.
We suggest mixing a solution of dish soap and water at a ratio of 1:10, and spray the affected areas once a week until the bugs are gone, please note that over-spraying can affect the health of your plant. For more persistent bugs, please use specially formulated insecticides such as Provanto Ultimate Bug Killer, or more natural alternatives such as Neem oil. Please follow the instructions before application!
Do I need to fertilise my plant?
You might notice that your leaves are lighter in colour and have lost their shine - this might mean that your plant needs some fertiliser. All plants are supplied with two months' slow-release fertiliser in them. After that period, just use Baby Bio fertiliser once every month (except in the winter months where we recommend fertilizing after every 3 months) by soaking the moss ball in a mixing bowl with 5ml of liquid. Baby Bio can be bought from any gardening nursery or from our website.
If I’m going on holiday, how do I keep the plant alive at home?
Simply water your plant, let the moss ball dry out for a couple of days so it is not saturated, then place the moss ball in a clear bag, with the top tied and sealed at the trunk. You can leave it in there for up to two or three weeks.
Will heating affect my plant?
Yes – internal heating, air conditioning, and underfloor heating can affect your plant(s). To avoid this, we recommend that you do not place your plant near a heater or air conditioning unit.
My Kokedama has arrived damaged.
If this happens then please contact us as soon as possible so we can rectify it. We offer free replacements within the first 14 days after delivery if the plant has lasting or serious damage. 99% of plants are in excellent condition but may become slightly altered during delivery - this is normal and the plant will easily bounce back.
We like to guarantee 100% customer satisfaction, so if you have a query or are not happy with your order, please email us within the first 2 weeks.
Contact us for more help
We're here tohelp you as much as we can on your plant care journey. If you are struggling to find the information you're after or need some extra help and advice, contact us at:
Info@tranquil.plants.co.uk