What Measurements Does A Bonsai Pot’S Interior Have?

The interior dimensions of a bonsai pot vary greatly, depending on the size and style. Smaller pots are typically 2-3 inches in depth and 4-7 inches in diameter, while larger ones can reach up to 10-14 inches in depth and 11-20 inches in diameter. Choosing the right pot size for your bonsai tree requires careful consideration. It is essential to assess the size of the tree’s root system and select a pot that provides adequate water and nutrients.

An oblong (oval or rectangle) bonsai tree pot should be roughly ⅔ as wide as your tree is tall. Evenly proportioned pots, like squares and circles, should be ⅓ as wide as the tree’s height. The ideal pot size is determined by the dimensions of your bonsai, with a general rule of thumb that the pot’s length should be approximately two-thirds the height of the tree from the soil line to the top.

The pot you use is important to the overall impression your tree makes. You need to get the right shape, size, color, and quality. There are several considerations to choosing the right pot. The general rule of thumb is that the pot’s depth should be equal to the diameter of the trunk just above soil level. For oval or rectangular pots, the length of the pot should be 2/3 the height of the tree. For round or square pots, the diameter should be 1/3 the height of the tree.

To calculate the ideal length for your pot, you’ll use the height of your tree. The pot at its longest side should measure between 1/2 – 2/3 of the tree’s height. The pot’s interior dimensions are 6.25″ X 9.5″ X 2.5″.


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Do Bonsai trees like terracotta pots?

The study found that Terra Cotta trees produced larger trees, girth, and more root mass on average. However, most of the added root mass had to be removed during repotting due to its presence on the outside and bottom of the containers. Retained root mass after repotting was higher for colander grown trees. Subjective ranking of nebari and roots led colander grown pines to rank 6, 2, 5, and 1, while terra cotta ranked 7, 4, 3, and 8. An unexpected result was that three of the four pond baskets contained significant visible mycorrhiza, while the fourth contained mycorrhiza and no root aphids.

Should I mist my bonsai tree?

The application of a weekly misting regimen to indoor bonsai trees can effectively remove accumulated dust. Conversely, well-watered bonsai trees facilitate the transpiration process, which enables them to support their surrounding environment. Additionally, humidity trays assist in preventing water from draining through the base of the container, thereby preventing contamination of surrounding surfaces, such as teak tables or footwear. This practice ensures the continued health and maintenance of the bonsai tree.

Why are bonsai pots not glazed inside?

The author states that their bonsai pottery is not glazed on the interior, as it doesn’t affect the plants’ ability to breathe or moisture. A properly fired pot prevents moisture or air from moving through the clay body. The advantage of unglazed interiors is the “tooth” of the raw clay surface, allowing roots to better anchor themselves in the pot. The author also emphasizes that they only reach their customer base through the internet, ensuring a safe and personal experience. They are available for questions or assistance via email or phone.

What is the depth of bonsai pot?
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What is the depth of bonsai pot?

Pot depth should be equal to the diameter of the trunk just above soil level. For oval or rectangular pots, the length should be 2/3 the height of the tree, while for round pots, the diameter should be 1/3 the height. Wide canopies may require a wider pot, which can be compensated by using a slightly shallower pot. Trees with very thick trunks may suit a slightly deeper but narrower pot. These guidelines are based on aesthetics, but some species require larger or smaller pots for horticultural reasons.

For example, fast-growing trees like Trident Maples may require deeper pots, while flowering and fruiting species like Crab Apples require deeper pots. The style of pot should harmonize with the tree’s characteristics, deciding whether it is masculine or feminine. Many trees are a combination of both, but one is usually dominant. The owner of the tree has the final say in the pot choice. A masculine tree will not look right in a feminine oval pot, and a feminine tree will always look awkward in a masculine pot.

What width should a bonsai tree be?
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What width should a bonsai tree be?

Bonsai artists create beautiful trees by combining nature’s creations with their own vision. Bonsai styles can be grouped into formal upright (Chokkan), informal upright (Moyogi), and one-handed bonsai styles. Formal upright styles have a straight, upright, tapering trunk with branches progressing from the thickest and broadest at the bottom to the finest and shortest at the top, creating a triangular shape and symmetry. Strong surface roots are visible, moving from the base of the trunk downward into the soil and radiating evenly around the trunk.

Informal upright styles have visible curves, but the apex is directly above the trunk’s entry into the soil line. Branches progress regularly from largest at the bottom to smallest at the top, although this progression may be broken if the irregular shape of the trunk makes a branch abnormally prominent or obscure.

What should a bonsai pot look like?
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What should a bonsai pot look like?

Bonsai pots are typically designed with masculine features such as deep, angular shapes and clean lines, while female pots have soft lines and delicate feet. Round and drum pots are considered androgynous. When selecting a pot, it is essential to consider the color that appears in the tree, such as bark, leaves, and fruit or flowers. Unglazed brown, gray, and earth tones are safe choices, providing warmth and stability. Contrasting colors like blue or cool green can also add balance and refresh the composition.

The goal is to create harmony by observing others’ choices, discussing with others, visiting exhibitions, reading books, and contacting a potter. It is important to remember that there are multiple pots for your Bonsai tree, and the best choice is ultimately up to your taste and satisfaction.

Do bonsai pots need holes in the bottom?
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Do bonsai pots need holes in the bottom?

Bonsai trees grow in constrained environments, so proper drainage is crucial for preventing root rot. Traditional containers have at least one drainage hole, but choosing one with two to four holes or drilling more yourself is recommended. Wiring holes can be used as drainage holes for top-heavy or precariously angled trees, allowing them to stand upright in the soil. Bonsai pots can be purchased online, at local shops, or at pottery conventions. Local nursery staff can help pick the perfect match by taking photos of your tree.

Be cautious of online prices, as poorly constructed pots can significantly impact the tree’s appearance. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as the difference between poorly and expertly constructed pots can greatly impact the tree’s appearance.

Should bonsai pots be shallow or deep?
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Should bonsai pots be shallow or deep?

When choosing a bonsai pot, consider size and depth, as they should be proportionate to the tree’s roots, trunk, and aesthetics. Small pots restrict root growth and hinder the tree’s health, while large pots overpower its beauty. Shallow pots are preferable as they control tree growth, make maintenance easier, and allow for easy pruning and watering.

Drainage holes at the bottom of the pot allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth. Without proper drainage, water can become trapped in the soil, leading to suffocation of roots. The number and size of drainage holes depend on the pot’s size, with smaller pots having one or two holes and larger ones having more.

Should I put my bonsai in a bigger pot?
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Should I put my bonsai in a bigger pot?

Potting up is a common method for growing immature bonsai to increase the amount of foliage and water supply. To save time on watering, pot the bonsai into slightly larger pots, as the soil volume will hold more water, allowing more flexibility in watering frequency. Potting down is a process of turning field-grown, yamadori, or nursery material into bonsai, where the root mass must be gradually reduced over time as the density of fine, fibrous roots builds up.

Starting with the tree in a large plastic pot, root-prune the tree to a smaller, more shallow pot, and eventually move it into an even smaller pot. This process of root-pruning and potting down takes many years and can only be rushed to a certain degree, as it requires working with the tree to achieve the desired results. Both methods are essential for the growth and development of bonsai trees.

How much room does a bonsai tree need?

To determine the ideal length for a bonsai pot, use the height of your tree and measure the pot at its longest side between 1/2 – 2/3 of the tree’s height. For instance, a 62cm tree would require a pot length of 31 – 41. 5cm. To determine the ideal depth, measure the ground root or trunk width at the soil base. Bonsai pots come in rectangular or circular forms, with chunky trees preferring square pots and delicate trees preferring circular ones.

What size should a bonsai pot be?
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What size should a bonsai pot be?

Bonsai pots should be about 2/3 the height of the tree and 2/3 the width of its spread. When choosing a pot, consider the size and style of the pot. The pot should accommodate the tree’s root structure in your climate and look good with your style of tree. The pot should allow the tree’s current root system to stretch its legs and allow vital root ends to draw nutrients and moisture from the soil. Repotting your Bonsai depends on factors like tree age, type, root boundness, and desired size.

Re-potting doesn’t necessarily require an increase in pot size; if you have an established tree and perform regular root pruning, your Bonsai can live happily in the same size pot indefinitely. Regular root pruning can help maintain the pot’s health and appearance.


📹 All you need to know about Bonsai Pots

During this video I will explain why choosing the Bonsai pot is an integral part of creating bonsai. Bonsai Pots is a subject dear to …


What Measurements Does A Bonsai Pot'S Interior Have?
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Rafaela Priori Gutler

Hi, I’m Rafaela Priori Gutler, a passionate interior designer and DIY enthusiast. I love transforming spaces into beautiful, functional havens through creative decor and practical advice. Whether it’s a small DIY project or a full home makeover, I’m here to share my tips, tricks, and inspiration to help you design the space of your dreams. Let’s make your home as unique as you are!

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29 comments

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  • Hello! I have just started perusal your website and I find it extremely helpful! I am very new into bonsai and looking for basic principles. One thing I am struggling with is finding the info about proper watering. I have seen your articles about watering systems comparison but it still does t give fundamental principles of understanding when and how much to water the bonsai. What is the frequency, etc. if you could share some info that would be super helpful for the beginner 😍

  • Wow. Just…wow. First of all, thank you for doing all the book-readin’ for us! Such a wealth of information here that personally I never would have considered. I’m another yer or two away from using an actual bonsai pot for any of my crap trees but I can guarantee that this article will stick with me as a perfect reference. Thank you so much bro!

  • So I don’t know if ur familiar with a white Champaca I ordered two of these trees and I’m trying to stun the growth they don’t like to be water logged or have water sitting but still love to be wet and not dry what kinda pot would you recommend I saw articles online talking about you can trim them in the winter time every winter to stunt there growth and keep them in a tight pot I need them to grow a decent size as I am using there buds to make essential oils but half to have them indoors and I live in Montana and they originate from India so two very different zones lol what ever info you can give me would help a lot just trying to find the best way to stunt the growth with out killing them.

  • I ordered 3 Japanese maple trees yesterday and waiting for them to come in. I watched so many of your articles, so I can learn how to turn these trees into Bonsais but what should I do first? Let them grow in original pots a bit more for the trunk to thicken up and then cut off all the long branches later or should I repot it and trim it as soon as I get them? If there are any articles that would help me with starting this off, please let me know 🙂

  • I appreciate your regard for horticulture, not just bonsai aesthetics. I think that pot depth should be determined by tree species (as well as other considerations): for instance, japanese maples develop shallow roots whereas olive tree roots grow deep. It would follow logically that a shallow dish is fine for maples, which also like the soil moist and cope well with little depth, whereas the olive likes it drained and prefers it deep. Just my two cents.

  • Maan, your films are not only stuffed with practically given knowledge but also relaxing. I’ve already heard about perched water table before but the way you explain it is really something. You don’t go into unnecessary details for people who are not scientists but you also don’t skip and oversimplify the matter. I really appreciate it!

  • Most of my friends doing bonsai are retired, I still have some years to work. This also means i don’t have the whole day to watch my trees, so I tend to take a deeper pot, despite the rules. Not exaggerating of course. For example, i’m not gonna use a cascade pot for a upward tree. Vertalen ofcourse

  • The best tip for growing bonsai is throw the rules out the window and do what works. Ive got 2 right now growing in smart pots ( air prune pot) buried 1/4 into another pot sitting in water and ive never had better results. Regular potting soil no bonsai soil. I dont want to enjoy my bonsai when im in my 70s i want to enjoy them now and what im doing and have been doing for years works so why do it by the book?

  • Any advice on best soil mix for a 40yr old brush cherry bonsai? I believe it is an acidic loving plant so I was wondering about using Kanuma soil?? But should I use this on its own.. or mix with pumice and lava rock. Or should I use something else something else? It has never flowered while it has been under my care which I am assuming is due to the non acidic ‘shop bought’ bonsai soil mix I have used. Thanks for any advice

  • My Daughter received a Bonsai starter kit for Christmas of 2022. We live in America on the east cost in New Jersey. We both have been growing the seedlings together. While searching for more information about Bonsai, I found your website… You are VERY informative and inspirational. I have been perusal many of your articles Peter. I came across this older 4 year article and found it SUPER interesting in learning more about Bonsai… You explaining Bon Sai was 2 words caught my attention. Thank you for your wisdom and expert information. Agreed when you say there is no right or wrong way but a work of art. As our trees grow for a couple of years, we will be working them into Bonsai pots. Maybe we will order some from your establishment… Thank you…

  • Thank you. You generously offer so much depth. Perhaps if you put the tags on the sides of the pots, the person looking at the pot would get the complete feeling of it? Your Pleasant and informative nature is very compelling. I have always loved the bonsai and your Enthusiasm drive me to words endeavoring in it myself. The mountains in my area reach to where the trees can no longer grow and in the final stages of the elevation, natural Bonsai occurs and you have such a lovely touch

  • Your articles are fascinating and mesmerizing. I didn’t even know I had this question but now I understand that bon sai is 50% pot! I’m in process of perusal all your articles, and trying to obtain your books as well, because my new house has a small area just perfect for a Japanese Garden. I spent the first few years of my life in Japan and it made a permanent impression on me that has lasted over 65 years. I’ve always loved Japanese maples and gardens and now I finally have a chance to indulge this life long interest, thanks to your obvious knowledge and expertise.

  • I got to say, I’ve been perusal your articles for a second day straight now. (Currently looking to grow a few trees from seed and I just perusal all things bonsai soaking up the information.) I absolutely love your attitude! In one of your earlier article about taking care of Bonsais and how people don’t realize they need to water the plant. And here, about the lady who thought she knew everything about bonsai. Brilliant! You have so much knowledge! Next time I am down south, I am hoping to pay your nursery a visit. Thank you for doing these articles. They offer so much more than all things bonsai.

  • Peter, I love your tutorials as you explain things so simply. I visited your nursery when you first opened on my way to visit my Father in Brighton. Since then I have been hooked and have around fifteen of my own Bonsai. You are from the same part of the world as I am so your accent takes me home.!!!!

  • I grew up in Japan, but for the most part, my heart is with the Chinese style. I don’t mean to say that I don’t like the Japanese style altogether. I just tend to believe that the Japanese style values aesthetics overt the health of the plant, and that, to me, the Chinese style seems to attempt a balance between health and beauty for a more perfect symmetry. It is just what I think.

  • At the time I met my wife (in Slovakia) I had already several years of hit-and-miss dabbling in bonsai. Soon thereafter she found a book of yours in a second-hand bookshop, “A Guide to BONSAI” so she purchased it as a gift to me. I thought it was a bit strange to find a book on bonsai there until I realized it was printed in Czechoslovakia in 1989 for Bracken Books of London. Yes, I still have it in my bonsai bookshelves. 😊

  • Thank you for your lovely articles! You’ve inspired me to cultivate my own shoot come spring, a litte willow. Though I’ve not seen much information on keeping willow bonsai, and wonder if you have any general advice on such? I’m aware that the willow might be a bad choice as it can grow quite wild rather quick, but the willow in question is very dear to me so I’d want to at least try. And thank you once agan!

  • Dear Mr. Chan, I would like to show you some trees I created…lots of my inspiration came from your books and so did much of my knowledge. I was so glad when I found your website on the web. And also I have a question about the sagaretia theezans on the cover of your book”bonsai the art of keeping miniature trees”…1989 reprint. Do you know if this tree is still alive? Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Dave

  • Peter, I see in one of your responses that you grew forsythia on your balcony in London. I am going to try to grow and train that first. Unfortunately I won’t be rummaging through the nursery rubbish. I would have a lovely time. My children would be horrified when the police brought me home. Being old gives you licence to enjoy breaking the rules.

  • I can’t believe I just spent 32 minutes perusal a article about pots! I’ve just been gifted a 12 year old Chinese Elm and am totally fascinated and a little scared by the care, culture and dedication in looking after bonsais. This website has really opened up my eyes to how beautiful the whole process is, even down to the pots that are used. I can’t wait to learn more and hopefully see my bonsai grow and flourish over the years. I hope I can keep it happy! 😬🤞🏻🌱

  • Mr. Chan You are an amazing person. Way of explaining things and elaborating tiny details is what you do very beautifully. I am considering you my Master & Teacher. Loving your informative articles and please don’t stop posting because World need to know about Bonsai. You made up my mind and now I would like to start making Bonsai. May GOD shower his blessings upon you. Take care sir. Love from Pakistan.

  • Hello Peter Chan, thank you for your articles! I really like them! I just started to enjoy and learn from them. If you showed the books, I remembered the pictures, I knew, I have seen them before. In that very moment, the German version of your Book “Bonsai Masterclass” was just one meter away on my shelf. How cool is that! The publisher in Germany is Kosmos and the book was printed in 1989. I’am addicted to Bonsai since the 1980′ s 🙂 I’m sorry, but I had to tell you that! Thank You!

  • What a world of knowledge sir! I could listen to you for hours, you make the viewer feel involved. I’m just starting out, and I have many questions. One being how long usually do you leave the wire on that shapes the trunk of the bonzai? The thicker wire? I’m assuming on the kind of tree and shape that one’s wishes, but just to have an idea. Thanks!!!

  • indeed, i knew the pot is as important as the tree, because my father never found the sort he was searching for…so, i made my own from unusual rocks & slices of dead wood…as i must again, being a senior now on a tiny fixed income..unless…i happen across something suitable at a yardsale….ceramics…another thing that was very dear to our hearts…my father was able to make a few bowls & baskets & plates in his retirement but i can not as the Only shop with a kiln is gone….ugh ><

  • Thank you Mr. Chan for sharing your knowledge so passionately. You have inspired me to learn more about bonsai & while reading some comments it appears many many others feel the same. We all say the same thing. You are generous & kind, have a very soothing voice & my goodness what a memory with your dates. I so enjoyed you sharing your bonsai pot collection & boy do I wish I lived closer to your beautiful nursery. I am in California & have only been able to find a few basic pots. Now, not only am I combing all my local nurseries but now will be on the hunt for pots. Love your analogy about the pot framing the artwork. I look forward to perusal all of your articles & can’t wait to start my next bonsai. Thank you 🙏

  • Huh? There is Sign Do not touch the Trees !! Japanese is a cute Language Teapot means Tiipotto and TeaBag means TiiBagü What? Look at these pots 18:00 so small sooo cute. Will my Bonsai become faster bigger with a bigger and deeper Pot ? I like the edges Pot but my tree is very fenimin and it should have more space I like it more chinese in this sense, my eyes are mixing styles hahaha it should have space to one side, giving more statement to the tree, I think its more beautiful, it has a sense of secureness of the tree, looking more relax and more welcome. I love my Bonzai also when its not that beautiful, I would never give it away for no money in the world \\ – . – / I think I will go for a new Potto to make it more beautiful, my bonzai does deserve a new Potto, I feel so much humble and empathy altruism for my bonzai sorry for that.

  • I ha e now 3 ficus bonsais one big and two small and I made myself the outside pot bc here in the Netherlands was, hard to find propar bonsai pot so I made out of very pretty ceramic inside pot I made the holes under how I saw in ur articles and I put plate under 🙂 I love the green house u own. But I left UK few years ago so I am not so lucky to visit u for pots

  • Great article Mr Chan and I learnt a lot. I watched the article to learn about proportions and drain hole sizes as I intend to carve bonsai pots from stone. I already carve unique planters from stone (I’ve done about 120 so far) and have sold shallow alpine planters to bonsai growers for their trees. I’ve done a couple of shallow slabs but I want to be more adventurous. Are there any problems with making pots from natural stone? You didn’t mention stone carved pots in your article. Any information would be useful. Thanks.

  • I freinded Harry Tomlinson’s son on Facebook he’s a great guy but iv been to afraid to ask what’s happened to Harry himself ??any ideas I’m an avid tree hoarder and collected of stones tree’s and metals life’s gems and bonsai are just that if you ask me living gem’s also koi the most beautiful of all the garden freinds

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