Design Principles

Bonsai Design Principles


Creating a Balance

A good design has an overall balance, achieved by shaping and training the structure of the tree and relating the tree to the container. There are three main factors to consider: the root spread, the form of the trunk, and the arrangement of the branches.
The tree’s shape changes from conical to flat-topped as it ages. The taper balances the thickness of the trunk base and the arrangement of branches balances the trunk.

Root Spread

An interesting formation of exposed roots adds to the impression of the tree’s character and maturity. This is one of the most interesting features of bonsai, giving an air of age and stability.
For the most pleasing visual effect the roots should extend from the trunk in many different directions, either flowing away from it or providing the trunk with a firm buttress or anchor.

Trunk

The most important feature of the trunk is a good taper (narrow toward the tip). Thickness at the base adds maturity, but a perfectly vertical trunk line destroys the balance of the design. Whatever the angle of the trunk, it is vital to have a good view of the trunk line. Look for bark with texture and colour as these add character, and an aged, weathered appearance is attractive. Avoid scarred bark.

Branches

Branches form the basic structure of the tree’s silhouette. You can alter this by pruning and wiring, but still watch for certain basic features when choosing a tree or shrub. Aim for an arrangement that flows up and around the tree like a spiral staircase, forming a balanced pattern around the trunk. The first and heaviest branch level should be a third of the way up the trunk, and each branch should taper away from the trunk and narrow out toward its end.

Viewpoint

Always design a bonsai with one preferred viewing angle, called a “front view”. This should display the most graceful angle and taper of the trunk, an attractive view of the root structure and the most pleasing arrangement of branches. Your eye-level should correspond to a point halfway up the trunk of the tree.

Size & Scale

Most bonsai are between 6in (15cm) and 2ft (60cm) in height. The small-leaved trees are more adaptable in terms of scale, and dwarf tree forms are excellent for styling on rock. Group plantings offer more possibilities for a sense of scale because the trees relate to one another and to other elements of the design, such as rocks and groundcover.

Tree & Container

Consider the size and proportion of the pot in relation to the tree, the overall character of the design, and the position of the tree within the container. The pot must be in scale with the tree, enhancing the balance of the tree’s height and spread. Match the texture and type of container to the style of the tree. Elegant trees need dainty containers; rugged trees usually demand plain, heavy pots.

What to Avoid

Certain types of branch growth do not make good design elements. Prune these out. Avoid branches that cross, spread out from the same point on the trunk, or grow directly opposite one another at the same level on the trunk. You can adjust the direction of these branches with wiring techniques. Large leaves, coarse foliage, and twigs are also difficult to work with.