Bonsai need a pot for survival. (Not always, I have grown root-bound trees without a pot, after a pot broke). The pot is in the translation of the word Bonsai. Strict translation is ‘tree planted in tray.’ Finally, I like to think of the pot as earth, or ground. The stand would be the frame.
To go into Pots, we need to talk ‘art and design.’ Design elements for Bonsai are as follows, Harmony, Rhythm, Balance, Symmetry, Movement, Proportion, Space, Line, Formal, Informal, Masculine, feminine, Compatibility, and Asymmetry.
You need to consider all these elements, in your choices, of a pot for a specific Bonsai. The Pot should reflect the tree. Many design elements are just given. Some are just feelings. Harmony, Rhythm, and balance, need to be considered. The entire composition needs to be harmonious unless you are trying for discord. Rhythm is a lot like harmony and should be considered in your choice. Often it is the pot that is responsible for the balance in the Bonsai. Most pots are symmetrical, but some are asymmetrical. An asymmetrical pot can work well to balance a tree. They should look good together. If something seems out of place, it is. Movement, proportion, space, and line are elements that can be measured. There are certain guidelines in place for these. The trunk base measurement should determine the depth of your pot. The width of your pot should be 2/3 the height of the tree. These are your guidelines, do not let it stop you from doing other than this. Rhythm, balance, movement, proportion, space, line, these are the specifics of the design, that you take into consideration.
Say a formal upright tree, would need a formal pot. An informal or slanting style tree would need an informal pot. Is the tree masculine, then the pot should also be masculine. There needs to be a connection between the tree and the pot. Let us say “a cascade,” with a lot of curves and movement in its branches. The pot should be round. If the cascade has a straighter trunk and branches, a straight edge, square cascade pot? A tree growing in a rough landscape, is usually a rough looking tree. So, a rough looking pot.
Glazed or unglazed? The rules used to be, deciduous and tropical can be in a glazed pot. And evergreens unglazed. It is safe to say, anything goes these days. Try different things to see what you like. And remember what you like is what counts.
Phil Malhiot
