Pots?

[Fender0327]

Okay, so I'm have a REALLY hard time finding bonsai pots. I'm looking for something about 8-10" wide for a smaller tree. The problem is that I can't find anything outside of the standard terracotta pots in my area. I've gone to about 4-5 different nurseries. No luck. Today, I actually went to a small bonsai seller, and he had his in terracotta pots. I thought that was odd. I've only been able to find these pots online. I'm trying to stay away from online, because I want to see and hold the pot before I commit to buying it. Makes sense right?

Does anyone have a suggestion for a bonsai pot reseller in the northeastern PA area?

Also, could I use a standard pot? I'm not sure I understand why specific pots are needed for bonsai. Is it to restrict the roots?

 

[Victrinia Ridgeway]

terracota pots can make great training pots... so don't hesitate to use one. Have you joined a club yet? Often times club members will sell to others.

The choice of a bonsai pot vs a regular pot is largely aesthetic. But it also generally has better drainage and spread for the roots to grow horizontally vs down. But when in training, terracotta can work nice because it's breathes nicely and keeps a pretty even humidity between regular watering.

Kindly,

Victrinia

 

[Fender0327]

Thanks

I appreciate the feedback!

 

[mc4mc44]

There's Midway Bonsai in Wilkes-barre, and that's really the only place i know of here in NE PA. Honestly, they didn't have much selection, but they had a couple nice pots. If you don't mind a small drive there is Allshapes Bonsai in Flemington NJ, and if you don't mind a long drive there is always Natures Way in Harrisburg. Allshapes has a website, you can see part of their pot selection there. So does Natures Way. Someone really needs to start another bonsai nursery around here...

Also, you could plant a tree in almost anything with drainage holes. Until recently i had a larch planted in a coffee tin just because it fit. Since none of my trees are good enough for real bonsai pots, everything i have is still basically in nursery containers. Bonsai pots are only necessary for finished trees to be put on display.

 

[Poink88]

Purchasing online is not bad if you order from reputable potters/vendors.

 

[Bill S]

It is understandable to want to have it in hand. Lots to tell that way, from quality, size, to color, this way you are sure it "fits" the tree.

 

[Poink88]

It is understandable to want to have it in hand. Lots to tell that way, from quality, size, to color, this way you are sure it "fits" the tree.

I think no one will argue with you on that but if there are no local choices...online is a viable option. I hardly see anything worth buying locally too but online, I can tap endless resource worldwide!!! (limited only by my funds). I actually started having pots made to my specifications (size, shape, color, pattern, etc.) for no more than a pre-made pot. Actually, most of the time, cheaper than you can find in stores. Can't beat that deal IMHO.

The downside to commissioned piece is the wait, some are 8 months long. General downside of online purchase is added shipping cost and...not being able to inspect it first hand.

 

[Paradox]

I have the same problem here. I've bought a couple of pots online and a couple at the one bonsai nursery within easy driving range. I got lucky and found one really cheap at a garden center that they were dicontinuing. Most of my pot purchases will probably be online due to expense, greater variety and availability.

 

[Bill S]

If you are talking about a good pot vs. a cheapie just to have a "bonsai" pot, then you can photograph your tree, and with measurements contact bonsai potters and let them help you. They can guide you into a good fitting pot for your tree.

 

[lordy]

Not sure if you are ready for these, but some contemporary quality potters are Sara Rayner, Dale Cochoy, Ron Lang. There are plenty of others, but if you search for them online, you will find good pots. I have some from each, and you can just tell a good pot from a cheap pot. Trust me. When you hold it, you can tell.

 

[dkraft81]

You can also watch craigslist. I just bought several pots for dirt cheap. Quite a few of them were very nice looking too.

 

[A Random User]

I remember seeing some not so well known potters selling hand made Bonsai pots on ETSY as well... they also took commissions...