Which pot is right for my tree?

Choosing the right pot for your bonsai tree is not only important for the aesthetic aspect, but also for the health of the tree. Some factors to consider when selecting a bonsai pot for your tree are the size, style and color, material, color and arrangement in which you ultimately want to display your tree. Below I explain more about the practical elements and style choices to arrive at the best choice for your tree.

Practical elements

Practical elements to take into account include size, material and drainage. For example, the pot should be just large enough to hold the root system and provide enough room for growth. The size and shape of the pot should be in proportion to the tree and emphasize its natural beauty and balance. The pot should have adequate drainage to allow excess water to escape. This is essential for the tree's health, as overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.

Bonsai pots are made of different materials such as ceramic, plastic and clay (terracotta). Ceramic pots are the most popular and are considered the most aesthetically pleasing. With a rough inside they can ensure better root growth. Plastic pots are cheaper, lightweight, and less likely to break, but they may not have the same aesthetic appeal as ceramic or clay pots and are often smooth, contributing less to fine root development. Terracotta pots are also cheaper. They are also porous and can contribute to better root growth and drainage.

Style choices

The style of the pot should complement the overall shape and style of the bonsai tree. There are as many types of bonsai pots as bonsai styles, and the challenge is choosing one that highlights the beauty of your tree. The combination should exude an elegant and sophisticated look, with a sense of grace and sophistication. The pot and tree should have a natural and authentic look, as if they were a snapshot of nature itself, and the pot and tree should be in harmony with each other, creating a cohesive and pleasant visual effect. For example, as one can with bonsai, also bonsai pots can shapewise be divided into more masculine and more feminine shapes. Also the level of detail in the finish differs a lot, and a more or less smooth finish of the clay can provide an entirely different appearance. In addition, a patina acquired over the years can give the pot a sense of age or maturity which can enhance the beauty of a pot tremendously.

The color of the pot should complement the color of the tree and enhance the overall appearance. Neutral colors such as beige, brown and gray are often preferred, but you can also choose a pot with a color that contrasts with or emphasizes the color of the tree to create a striking effect. As a rule of thumb, an unglazed pot is often chosen for conifers and a glazed one for deciduous trees, but please keep in mind it is just a rule of thumb. 

Display

The pot and tree should have a symmetrical and balanced arrangement, with each element complementing the other. The combination should have a sense of depth and dimensionality, with layers of texture, color and shape and a sense of contrast and balance, with contrasting colors, shapes or textures creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience and capture the imagination. In a shohin arrangement with several trees, a variety of colors and shapes are generally chosen within the arrangement, with natural colors for the conifers at the top of the arrangement and more vibrant colors at the bottom of the deciduous trees. The idea is that the pot and tree exude a sense of peace and tranquility, as if they were a natural part of the environment. The most beautiful arrangements have a timeless and durable quality. 

Concluding the journey: Picking the right bonsai pot for your tree

In general, the right pot for your bonsai tree depends on a combination of factors such as size, style, material, color and drainage. Take the time to carefully consider each of these factors before making your final choice as the right pot can help your bonsai tree thrive and look its best for years to come, and remember that the best style is the one that makes you smile.

Would you like our assistance in choosing a pot for your tree? Please just let us know. We are always happy to help you!

Warmest regards, 

Maarten and Jacqueline