There are five basic bonsai styles that one can follow while growing a bonsai. Formal Upright, Informal Upright, Slanting Style, Cascade, and Semi-Cascade are the five bonsai styles. Some styles are suited for beginners, while others are best for experienced enthusiasts. Before you learn about the various bonsai styles, it is best to familiarize yourself how different trees grow in nature. Beginners should learn to train their bonsai to grow in their natural growth patterns.

Formal Upright

It is also known as the Chokkan style. For beginners this is not the best style to follow. a bonsai grown according to the Formal Upright style has a trunk that is perfectly straight and is tapering naturally and evenly from the base to the apex. Its branches are symmetrically spaced. Larches, Junipers, and Pines are best suited for this style.

Informal Upright

The trunk of a bonsai grown according to the Informal Upright style is always bent slightly to the right or left. The trunk or the branches should never be pointing towards the viewer. Japanese Maple, Trident Maple, and Beech are some of the species that are suited for this style.

Slanting Style

In this style the trunk leans at a definite angle, irrespective of whether it is curved or straight. Strong roots are allowed to grow on the side which is away from the angle of the trunk lean. This is done to provide support for the lean. Conifers are extremely suited for this style.

Cascade Style

In this style the tip of the bonsai tapers below the bottom of the base of the pot. Cascade style bonsai gives the impression of branches seeking light. Species that are not strongly upright are best suited for this style.

Semi-Cascade

In this style the tip of the bonsai will project over the rim of the pot but will not drop below its base. In natural surroundings you will find this style in trees that grow on cliffs or overhang water. Exposed roots should help in balancing the tree. Species that are suitable for this style include Cedars, Junipers, and flowering Cherries.

If you want to master the art of styling in bonsai, you should study trees in their natural surroundings. Observe their natural growth patterns. When you start with a plant you should observe its natural characteristics. By doing so, you will come up with a suitable style for that plant. When you have got enough experience you can start giving your bonsai more than one style. You can give your own interpretation of a particular style. No wonder bonsai is an artistic pursuit. It is a hobby which will provide you an outlet for your creative energy and bring you immense satisfaction.