Choosing a bonsai style
From BonsaiWIKI
Contents |
Choosing a Bonsai Style
Analyisis of Strengths and Weaknesses
In choosing a training style appropriate to a particular tree, one must first evaluate the tree's strengths and weaknesses. This will require some study, and if the tree is raw stock, it is best that the tree be removed from the growing container to examine it more carefully. Some basic pruning may be done at this point. The selection of a style is based on a series of compromises that are intended to emphasize a tree's features and minimize its defects. The choice of style may change as a tree matures over time.
Consideration of Trunk Shape
Trunk shape - is the trunk thick and upright? Does it undulate in gentle curves? Is it very twisted and crooked? Does it taper from a thick base to a thin tip or is it thin enough to bend to introduce new curves or remove undesireable ones? Cascade styles are frequently developed from trees that offer little interest in curve or taper, but are thin enough to be shaped with wire into cascading curves. Forests can be created from almost any material, so it is a very logical choice for trees that have numerous scars, little trunk taper or defects in the root system. Later, as wounds heal, tops are replaced, taper develops and surface roots mature, the trees can be separated and stand on their own as bonsai.
Evaluation of the Root System
Is the root system well developed? Do roots emerge at all points in a nice radial fashion, or is the root system one sided? Frequently in container stock there is a second root system that emerges just beneath the first as a result of uppotting from liner stock. This second root system might be better formed or more appropriate for the style in question.
In general, the Formal upright style requires a well developed, radial root system. Trees selected for this style should have excellent roots, or be adaptable to their development. Styles like Cascade, semi cascade, or in particular forest styles are very acceptable of less-than-perfect rootage. Two trees of the same species and variety with one-sided root systems can be grouped together to form a twin trunk that will eventually knit together to form a single bonsai with the best characteristics of both.
Consideration of Taper
Does the tree's trunk taper from a thick base to a fine tip? This is one characteristic that is desireable in formal uprights. It is less important for bonsai styles that emphasize the movement of the trunk (like informal uprights or cascades) and even less important in the multi-trunk styles.
Ramification
Has the tree developed secondary branching and tertiary branching? Is its nature twiggy or softly branching?Species Concerns
Perhaps too often, deciduous trees are trained as mature pines , in a conical shape with horizontal branches. Consideration should definitely be given to the species of tree, and a style appropriate to that species. Ginkgo are frequently grown in the "torch" or flame style shape. Japanese Zelkova lend themselves to the the broom style often seen in park trees growing under ideal conditions. Cryptomeria that feature buttressing root bases and tapering trunks in nature are often styled in formal upright shape. Cotoneaster and pyracantha often make great cascades. Juniper is a species often used for demonstrations because it is easy to grow and adapts itself well to a variety of styles.
