It seems logical that one would assume that the bonsai tree itself creates the entire composition of what constitutes a finished bonsai, but in actual fact the pot is just as important! For a tree to reach its full potential a harmony between the pot and tree must be achieved. Finding the perfect pot is possibly one of the most difficult tasks a bonsai enthusiast can be faced with. The pot that you eventually choose to make your bonsais' permanent home will ultimately be one that reflects your personal taste. The four main things to look at when choosing a pot are the pots dimensions, shape, texture and colour.
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-The pots depth should be equal to the diameter of the trunk at the base of the tree.
-For oval and rectangular pots, the pots length should be 2/3 of the height of the tree.
-For round pots, the pots diameter should be 1/3 of the height of the tree.
-A shallower, wider pot can help compensate for trees with extra-wide canopies.
-These guidelines are based purely on aesthetics and are not suitable for all species!
Pot shape
-To choose the correct pot shape, one must first decide whether the tree is masculine or feminine.
-More often than not, a tree will be a combination of both masculinity and femininity- but one will always be more dominant than the other.
-Masculine trees should be potted in rectangular pots and feminine trees should be potted in oval pots.
Texture
-Choosing a pot with the correct texture, once again, comes down to whether the tree is masculine or feminine.
-A feminine tree will suit a smooth clay finish, whereas the wildness of a masculine tree is brought out by the roughness of a pot.
Colour
-The colour of the pot is used to pronouce certain features of a tree, be it the bark, foliage, or even the fruits/flowers.
-This can be created by either using colour harmonies or by contrasting colours.
Choosing a suitable pot is a difficult process but it is one that can be mastered over-time. It will always come down to an individuals personal taste and no-one can ever tell you that you have made a bad decision as there is no right or wrong.
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Preparation of your selected pot is a much easier process, thankfully. Simply wash out and dry the pot. Place gauze tape over the drainage holes and cover the bottom of the pot with a thin layer of small 2/3mm stone to aid in drainage.
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