Plants have a transformative role in the indoor setup. They not only contribute to the aesthetic aspect but also elevate the overall aura of the space. Undoubtedly, every indoor plant contributes equally.
When it comes to bonsai plants, they have a special aesthetic aspect attached to them. Maintaining bonsai is an art therapy. The miniature trees mimic the full-grown trees in the wild.
The word bonsai stands for “plant in a tray.” Bonsai cultivation first appeared in Japan in the 12th century and has been one of the most effective art therapies for over 2500 years.
Different bonsai convey different meanings. However, each symbolizes balance and the positive order of nature. Know these different styles of bonsai and their significance in life. Take the guide:
1. Forest Bonsai style (Yose-ue)
This is a multi-trunk-style tree in a small pot. This is done by multiple trunks planted together in a single bonsai container to give off the effect of a group of forests. The plants are placed in a zigzag pattern for a lush look. It is one of the most popular bonsai styles that displays a full landscape.
2. Windswept Bonsai style (Fukinagashi)
As the name suggests, this type of bonsai grows in one direction and depicts the flow of the wind in one direction leading to the tilting tree. The branches and the leaves also grow in one direction and ultimately slant in the same direction as well as if blown by the wind. Some recommended trees for this style are Japanese black pine and spruce.
3. Formal upright Bonsai style (Chokkan)
This is a common bonsai style with a tapering trunk that receives enough care and sunlight. The trunk is thicker at the bottom and grows to be leaner as it shoots up. In this style, consecutive branches alternate from side to side. Recommended bonsai for this style are pine trees, Japanese cypress, and Japanese cedar.
4. Broom style Bonsai (Hokidachi)
In this style of bonsai, the trunk is upright and with branches shooting out resembling a Japanese fan. Interestingly, the trunk does not go to the top but shoots in all directions at about 1/3 the height of the tree. The crown of the tree is ball-shaped making it a picturesque sight.
5. Informal upright Bonsai style (Moyogi)
This type of bonsai grows in a somewhat S shape and is a common phenomenon in both natural and bonsai art. The trunk is thicker at the bottom at tapers to the top. The curving trunk is formed by bending it and wiring it front, back, right, and left. White pine and Japanese maple are most suited to Informal upright bonsai plants.
6. Double trunk style Bonsai (Sokan)
It is the bonsai style where the two trunks grow out of the root system and form a sharp V-shape. In this structure, one trunk dominates the other one in length and thickness and ultimately, both form a single crown of leaves or canopy. The small trunk called the child trunk remains a little more bent than the larger one. The recommended bonsai plants for this form are Japanese beech and maple.
7. Cascade Bonsai style (Kengai)
Trees have a natural tendency to grow upright. However, stooping can happen due to several reasons like falling rocks, excessive wind or snow, etc. And when it comes to growing a Cascading bonsai, it does take a lot of time and effort. This style is preferably done in tall pots. The tree is upright for a small stretch and then bends downwards with horizontal branches for the right balance. The best trees for this style are Satsuki azalea, and Juniper.
Bonsai art is all about personal creativity. The above types are a few guidelines to help you choose your art form.
