Shaping Methods and Techniques for Group-Planted Bonsai

  Group planting is the original appearance of a forest; it can be a pure stand or a mixed forest, all made freely according to each person's preference and choice. Its only biggest difference from the connected-root style is that every tree exists independently on its own, yet is also influenced by every surrounding tree, competing with one another in height and reach for sunlight and space, naturally forming a superb mutually matched scene.

  Therefore, group planting is a group that should be planted in the same shallow pot from the time they are small, letting them from a young age become accustomed to one pot together, getting along and coordinating with each other, mutually influencing each other's shaping tendency. If matched with rocks and layered scenery, the striking effect will go without saying.

  Group planting can also be planted in one pot with sizes and thicknesses matched to each other, and only afterward are the branches and leaves cultivated until the overall shape is perfect.