Make a Marimo Garden

Marimo is a tiny living ball of solid algae which requires minimal care and can live up to 100 years or more. Native to fresh water lakes in Japan, Estonia, Iceland, Scotland, and Australia, these fuzzy green balls are becoming popular house plants all over the world. Some people even refer to their marimo balls as extremely low maintenance pets. Caring for marimo balls may also aid in stress relief. Follow our instructions to make a marimo garden!

Instructions to Make a Marimo Garden

Purchase marimo ball or balls at a garden center. Use any clear glass or acrylic container and add colorful, cleaned stones, rocks or seashells to the bottom. Fill the container with regular tap water, add the marimo ball(s) and enjoy!

Marimo Care

Light: Marimo balls will photosynthesize in normal household light. Low-to-medium indirect light is recommended. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or hot, bright light sources. If your marimo ball begins to turn brown, immediately move  it to a cooler location with lower light. Water: Change the water once every few weeks. Regular tap water is fine to use. If algae begins to grow on the inside of the glass, use a small brush to scrub it away. Position: Marimo balls will normally stay at the bottom of the tank. If you want your marimo ball to float, take it out of the water and with a straw gently blow air into the ball before placing it back in the water. This should keep the ball floating for a few days. To keep the round, globe shape, gently agitate the water every few days allowing the ball to move and re-settle on it’s own.   In Fish Tank: Marimo balls are safe to go in to fresh water fish tanks and freshwater aquariums.  In fact, when added to aquariums, they act like miniature filters, helping to clean the water. Some fish actually enjoy pecking and playing with the balls. Transporting: Marimo balls can survive out of water for several days when kept in a closed plastic zip lock bag and kept moist. Legend: Did you know that there is a love legend associated with marimo balls? The story is of two forbidden lovers who jumped into the water together to avoid persecution, and once submerged, their hearts joined as the marimo ball. Legend claims that when given as gifts, marimo balls are said to bring the heart’s desire to both giver and receiver.