Bonsai pots are part of the beauty

A bonsai is incomplete without it's accompanying bonsai pot. Japanese garden design would be not be as fulfilling if it were not for the pottery that is so entwined with the garden decor. These can be a simple as clay pots or as ornate as the potted plants themselves.

Plant containers are chosen specific to the bonsai specimen. Many factors must be taken into consideration when choosing a suitable pot. The shape, size, texture and the color should match the bonsai that is being displayed. A large tree with a heavy trunk such as a pine will look best in an appropriately sized rectangular container. Trees and plants with a soft willowy appearance like maples are at their best in an oval or round pot. Tall pots are used for species that have been trained in the cascade style. Shallow containers are used for group arrangements. The size of the pot is a integral part of the display. A bonsai must appear natural in it's arrangement thus the pot must accommodate the plant's size without either overwhelming one another. Similarly the texture of the pot should compliment the plant that is being displayed. A glassy bright glaze looks best with plants that have shiny leaves and smooth bark and conversely rough porous pots help bring-out the rugged structure of trees that are knarled and have open bark. Colors also are important in the selection of the proper container. For the most part, bonsai parts are glazed in subtle muted colors so as not to distract the eye of the observer. Again, the color should match the specimen displayed.

Bonsai pots are designed with an abundance of drainage. If the pot you select does not have enough drainage the specimen will suffer and may die. Covering the drain holes with a mesh screen or like material should guarantee they do not clog. Some pots have these screens designed-in. Other pots have root ties that secure the plants to the container that assist a sound foundation for the plant is maintained. These garden pots consist of various materials from clay pottery and fine ceramics to mica.

Part of the bonsai art form is choosing the correct container and the Japanese landscape is renowned for this symmetry of plant and structure.

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