As the subject implies, what do you enjoy the most when looking at a good bonsai? For me, I think good ramification is where it's at. I love to look at all of the minute details in the branches of an elm or other deciduous tree.

For me it is the total picture - the total of nebari, trunk, branches, foliage and the way it is shaped and that gives the impression you are looking at a really old, real tree that has struggled against the elements - but then in miniature.

What I do look at most when visitings shows and exhibitions are - indeed - the branches, the way they are ramified and how the artist placed the branches, still thinking "How the hell did he do that"....

What about the rougher, less clean-cut structure you see in some penjing? Do you find this hard to look at or somewhat pleasing it it's own way? Even though I appreciate a really well managed branch structure, I think that it evokes greater imagination when the arrangement is verging on chaotic.

one thing i always look at is the trunk. the nebari and taper one gets on a bonsai. for example on deciduous trees i find it amazing how some people can get very nice taper with almost no scaring from any major trunk chops.

1-) Ramification
2-) Design (style, movement, whatever).
3-) Nebari, specially "melted nebari"

Hi Cicilio, can you help me understand the concept of melted nebari?

leroycoutts wrote: Hi Cicilio, can you help me understand the concept of melted nebari?

Yes, IF you write my name correctly.
See the example below, when the roots fuse on very old trees, specifically Acers.

Apologies. I mistyped. And thank you.

leroycoutts wrote: Apologies. I mistyped. And thank you.

:woohoo:
I was joking, call me whatever you fancy.
Aren't they great, melted nebaris?

Indeed.