Care

A little care for your little world

Marimo “moss balls” are living freshwater algae, not terrestrial moss. Keep them submerged in water and give them a cool spot with gentle light.

Find a cool spot

Keep your vessel away from direct sunlight, hot windows and heat sources. Gentle, indirect light is best.

Prepare the water

For tap water, use an aquarium conditioner labeled for both chlorine and chloramine, following its directions for the amount of replacement water. Leaving tap water out overnight does not reliably remove chloramine. Let replacement water reach a similar temperature before use.

Refresh regularly

Change the water every 1–2 weeks, sooner if dirty. Contain old water and debris in a separate bowl. Gently rinse your marimo in prepared water and turn it so the same side is not always underneath. Do not scrub or pull it apart, and do not add household cleaners to your living display.

Protect our waterways

Never release marimo, stones, debris or untreated display water into a garden, pond, stream or storm drain. Keep waste contained. If you suspect tiny mussels or receive a contamination notice, keep the contents and water isolated. Contact us and your state wildlife agency, and follow the US Fish & Wildlife Service disposal and decontamination instructions. Do not flush or mail suspect material back. Never mix cleaning chemicals.

Need help?

Email admin@24digitalmediagroup.com with your order number and a photo if you notice persistent discoloration, unusual odor or damaged glass.

Further reading: Marimo care basics and EPA guidance on chloramine.