1. Informal Upright Bonsai Brian Van Fleet

2. Formal Upright Slant Informal Upright Semi- Cascade Cascade The Basic Bonsai Styles From “Bonsai Techniques II” by John Y. Naka Styles are caused by natural or implied growing conditions Style names are dictated by trunk shape Infinite variants are possible, but will generally fit into these categories

3. Radial Nebari Good trunk taper from base to apex Strong first branch, sets “tone” of tree, emerges at 1/2 to 1/3 the height of the tree Second branch higher than first branch, on opposite side of tree Third branch is at back of tree Apex is balanced above base Graceful, or dynamic trunk movement Branches on outside of curves Photos: “The Step-by-step Guide to Growing Bonsai” by Colin Lewis Formal Upright Defined Informal

4. Informal Upright “Rules” The differences between Formal and Informal are subtle…can you identify them?

5. Informal Upright “Rules” Roots should radiate out from the trunk at an even level, and taper gently into the soil Trunk tapers as it ascends Branches emerge at the outside of bends Branches taper from trunk distally; movement repeats trunk movement Branches become thinner as they ascend, and move from parallel to more perpendicular to the soil

6. Examples Radial Root System Cylindrical, well- tapered trunk Apex balanced over base to provide sense of stability Rule Breaker? Opposed branches…

7. Examples Cylindrical, well- tapered trunk Apex balanced over base 1, 2, 3 branch pattern

8. Examples Radial Root System, powerful base Cylindrical, well- tapered trunk with movement Apex balanced over base First branch sets “tone” for tree Branches on the outsides of curves

9. Examples Radial Root System Cylindrical, well- tapered trunk Apex balanced over base 1, 2, 3 branch pattern Rule Breaker? “Eye-Poke” branch…

10. Breaking the “Rules” Crossing Roots Low #1 branch #2 branch is 2 branches that emerge from the same side, and to the back Main branch is 3 rd branch up Branches at inside of curves Trunk takes dynamic, inconsistent bends toward the top BUT…it works…