Bonsai PotsTerrific All Purpose PlantersBonsai pots are most often used to display plants shaped and styled to look like small old trees. In some cases, these miniature trees are very old, sometimes hundreds of years. Many centuries of oriental ingenuity, tradition and craftsmanship have produced containers specifically designed to show off their contents. In the art form known as bonsai, the tree represents a painting, the bonsai pot a frame. The contents, however, can be many things other than bonsai!
Group several on a table or shelf. Clustered together, the different colors liven an otherwise dull space. At one time, the Orient was the only source of these containers. Today, countries throughout the world produce them. Each country exudes a special flavor ... types of clay, favorite glazes and unique styles. An avid bonsai enthusiast can determine the country of origin with a quick glance. These exotic vessels come in numerous sizes and a mingling of colors. In addition to bonsai, these containers can make perfect ‘frames’ for other plants. Tiny pots are well suited to cactus and succulent starters, large pots are perfect for palms on a porch or patio. The sizes in-between can hold everything from Aspidistra to zebra plants. What a find!
For Indoor PlantsSince all bonsai containers have holes in the bottom, for ease in watering consider not planting house plants directly in them.Place a plant (such as an orchid) into the pot without repotting. Find a bonsai container larger than the one it is currently growing in. Drop it in with no mess. Lift it out and return it outside when the bloom is gone. Another idea is to slip a narrow glass or vase of cut flowers or greens inside an exotic bonsai pot for a sensational display. Where To Find ThemHand crafted containers are becoming very popular with collectors. Original hand built pieces by American potters can often be found at bonsai exhibits. Custom pieces, such as this Dan Barton container, can also be found online, through mail order and occasionally at art and craft shows.
Most likely, a bonsai convention is the ideal place to find many different kinds of bonsai pots! If you can't find a convention, try garden centers and oriental import stores. Occasionally, even department stores have them. Antiques to custom-made, the Internet is another excellent source of bonsai pottery. The "Rules"Bonsai artists follow ancient guidelines for selecting the correct pot to enhance their bonsai.According to tradition, the container always compliments the small tree's attributes ... such as thickness of trunk, bark texture and needle or leaf shapes and sizes. Glazed colors are recommended for flowering and fruiting bonsai. The muted tones of brown and gray unglazed clay are recommended for evergreen trees, such as juniper and pine. During judged exhibits, proper containers are very important. Use some of these guidelines when selecting a container. They are surprisingly helpful, no matter what you choose to display or plant in them. A ReminderThe art forms of Ikebana and bonsai have many similar design guidelines.Ikebana containers do not have holes in them,containers for bonsai do. Before you water a plant indoors make sure the hole is either plugged or you have moved it from your favorite table. Toss that plastic pot. Give up cleaning the clay. Exchange them for a new way to display - the ancient traditional bonsai container. Back to Top
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This Month's
Feature Page...
The Bonsai Articles Page holds a few surprises!
Bonsai Beginners,
Don't Miss ...
There are a number of bonsai articles on this site. Two of them are especially good for newcomers.
The first is important advice from an old timer and has become known as
"The Stuff Article."
Many teachers and clubs have reprinted Ten Steps for their members and students. For reprint details contact BonsaiMary.
Before you buy your first tools, be sure to read it.
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