Shaping a Bonsai For Maximum Appeal Articles | Garden Information Center

In the art of bonsai, the major difference between a pleasing and a not so pleasing example is the shape. As it is down to a personal preference what is aesthetically pleasing, the variations in shape can be many. For the beginner starting out in the hobby it may be prudent to follow one of the established forms listed below.

The literati or bunjingi style of bonsai is perhaps the most common shape. This form emphasises the leaves and branches towards the top of the tree. Most of the trunk is bare, and sometimes has a graceful and elegant twist which is very appealing to most.

The coiled or bankan style has a trunk that is severely twisted, some times growing back and around itself. This takes time, patience and skill to form.

Formal and informal shapes are usually formed to be upright and tall. The informal style is likely to have twists and turns in the trunk. These two styles are the least difficult to create and can be the starting point for the novice bonsai grower.

Kengai or the Cascade style of tree is one that is very desirable, but also very difficult to achieve. This type of tree is made to grow down below the level of the pot. This is an attempt to mimic and reproduce the appearance that trees in nature have, when they have been subjected to snowfall and avalanches. As extreme forces of nature are not available to the bonsai lover, this style or shape can only be achieved with the patient use of wire training, and lots of patience. When starting out with a tree that you intend to take this shape, remember that it will be wise to place the plant and pot near to the edge of a table, so that the trunk can be forced to grow down. This is not the only way of producing a cascading tree. Growing up and then over is perfectly acceptable. As the tree is going to grow below the pot, extra care must be taken to allow adequate watering. Also foliar feeding may be required. This is simply applying fertilizer to the foliage so that the leaves can absorb the nutrients.

Slanted trees are just that, the trunk is encouraged to grow at an angle. This gives the impression that the tree has been under heavy bombardment from the elements. As the roots naturally grow away from the direction that the trunk is growing, selective watering can help in the formation of this style. Plant the tree in the centre of the pot, and if the tree naturally starts to lean towards the left, make sure to water towards the far righthand side.

Whatever style appeals to you, caring for a bonsai tree is a very personal hobby. You may favour a certain shape but as time passes you will most likely find that you are creating your own variation of the above. Have fun with your tree.