story about

kodek

In late 2021, while all of us were trying to get through the Covid pandemic, I, William, but you can call me Will, like many others, found myself stuck at home.

During that strange period, when everything seemed to come to a standstill, I discovered the joy of gardening. Among all the plants I came across, caudex plants were the ones that captured my heart the most.

I still remember the first time I held a “turtle shell” caudex, also known as Dioscorea Elephantipes, in my hands. I watered it every day, patiently waiting for it to sprout. And eventually, it did. Then it died from overwatering. lol, obviously.

It was disappointing and a little heartbreaking, but I decided to push my luck and try again. This time, I took the time to learn more about its natural habitat, growing habits, and care requirements. I wanted to understand how to give it the right conditions so it could live well and grow healthily. And it worked.

Over time, my love for caudex plants continued to grow, and so did my collection. My family began to complain that my plants were everywhere and slowly taking over the house. They suggested that I turn this passion into my everyday work. They said it might feel like working, but also not quite like working at all.

And that was how kodek began.

The name kodek comes from a shortened form of kōdekkusu, コーデックス, the Japanese word for caudex plants. These are plants with swollen, water storing bases that gradually become woody over time.

In case you are wondering, kodek is a one man show. Every step is prepared by me personally: importing plants, preparing soil, watering, taking photos, managing orders, packing, and shipping.

So if I ever make a mistake, please do not hesitate to message me. I'm a bit old and clumsy (hahaha) but will always do my best to help you sort it out.

For now, I hope you find the same joy in caudex plants that I have found.

May your love for plants continue to grow.

Lot of love,
William