Mastering The Art Of Formal Upright Bonsai

Have you ever wondered how to master the art of formal upright bonsai?

This ancient horticultural practice requires a deep understanding of tree growth patterns and a keen eye for aesthetics.

In this article, we will explore the techniques and principles behind creating a formal upright bonsai, a style that embodies elegance and balance.

Unlike its informal counterpart, the formal upright style focuses on a straight and upward-pointing main stem, replicating the natural growth of a tree.

This style is highly regarded for its simplicity and is suitable for beginners and experts alike.

By carefully selecting coniferous species with straight trunks and minimal bends, trimming off unnecessary branches, and promoting a strong root system, one can achieve the desired formal upright structure.

Additionally, taper in the trunk can be achieved through strategic pruning and wiring.

Join us as we delve into the world of formal upright bonsai and uncover the secrets to mastering this captivating art form.

Quick Points

• Formal upright bonsai is the easiest style for bonsai and mimics natural tree growth.
• The trunk should be perfectly straight and taper evenly, with symmetrically spaced branches.
• Coniferous species such as junipers, spruces, pines, yew, maple, and cypress are best suited for formal upright bonsai.

– To achieve the desired shape, it is important to trim off twigs and small branches near the main stem, develop a good root system, and wire and trim branches to look natural.

What is it?

The formal upright bonsai is a style of bonsai where the main stem/trunk remains straight and points upwards, mimicking the natural growth of a tree, and is considered the easiest style for bonsai.

This style aims to create a tree that resembles a giant conifer with a pyramidal shape. The trunk should be perfectly straight and taper evenly, while the branches should be symmetrically spaced, resulting in a balanced overall structure. Coniferous species such as junipers, spruces, pines, yew, maple, and cypress are best suited for this style, while deciduous trees are not ideal.

To achieve the desired look, small branches and twigs near the main stem are trimmed off, and the tree is placed in a rectangular pot. The roots are trimmed to promote the growth of surface roots, and the taper in the trunk is achieved by cutting off the growing tip of branches or trunks and wiring new branches.

The bottom 1/3rd of the tree is pruned to remove small twigs, and the thickest first branch is developed. The branches are then wired and trimmed to create a natural appearance, with the bottom branches slightly pointing downwards and the top branches pointing upwards.

This style is suitable for both beginners and experts in bonsai and falls under the formal style category.

Creating a Formal Upright Bonsai

To create a formal upright bonsai, one must start by selecting a coniferous species with a straight trunk and minimal bending or forking. This style of bonsai mimics the natural growth of a tree under perfect conditions.

It is important to choose a conifer species such as junipers, spruces, pines, yew, maple, or cypress, as deciduous trees are not ideal for this style.

Once the appropriate species is selected, the next step is to trim off twigs and small branches near the main stem to achieve a clean and straight appearance. Additionally, the trunk should taper evenly, which can be achieved by cutting off the growing tip of branches or the trunk and wiring new branches.

The bottom branches should point slightly downwards, while the top branches should point upwards, creating a balanced and natural look.

Finally, a rectangular pot is recommended to complement the formal style of the bonsai.

Informal Upright Bonsai

One distinguishing characteristic of the informal upright bonsai style is the presence of a trunk with a bend or curve, while the top of the tree remains directly over the point where it enters the soil.

Unlike the formal upright style, which mimics the growth of a tree under perfect natural conditions, the informal upright style allows for a more natural and organic appearance. The curved trunk gives the impression of a tree that has been shaped by the elements, with branches that may exhibit a slight asymmetry.

While the formal upright style is often achieved with coniferous species such as junipers, spruces, and pines, the informal upright style can be applied to a wider range of tree species, including deciduous trees like crab apple and cherry.

This style provides an opportunity for bonsai enthusiasts to create a more relaxed and less structured composition, while still maintaining the elegance and beauty of an upright bonsai.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a formal upright bonsai?

Common mistakes to avoid when creating a formal upright bonsai include: irregular trunk shape, asymmetrical branch placement, improper pruning techniques, neglecting root development, using unsuitable species, and disregarding the overall balance and harmony of the tree.

How long does it typically take for a formal upright bonsai to reach its desired shape?

The time it takes for a formal upright bonsai to reach its desired shape can vary depending on various factors such as the species of tree, its age, and the skill of the bonsai artist. Generally, it can take several years of careful pruning, wiring, and training to achieve the desired form.

Can deciduous trees be trained into a formal upright bonsai style?

Deciduous trees, although not ideal, can be trained into a formal upright bonsai style. However, coniferous species are better suited for this style due to their straight trunks, symmetrical branching, and overall balanced structure.

What are some specific techniques for promoting the growth of surface roots in a formal upright bonsai?

Specific techniques for promoting the growth of surface roots in a formal upright bonsai include trimming deeper roots to encourage the development of surface roots, ensuring proper watering and soil conditions, and using root-promoting hormones or fertilizers.

Are there any specific care instructions or considerations for maintaining a formal upright bonsai throughout the year?

Specific care instructions for maintaining a formal upright bonsai throughout the year include regular watering, proper sunlight exposure, appropriate fertilization, pruning to maintain shape, and protection from extreme temperatures. It is important to monitor the health of the tree and address any issues promptly.