Adding a groundcover to a bonsai tree can either detract or add to the beauty of your design. You want to make sure the tree stays as the main attraction but you also want to add something pleasing underneath at ground level. Here are some choices that add interest and balance without overwhelming your design.



One thing you can do is add a little sculptural pieces around the ground underneath the tree. Of course, you can have some that are cheesy but you can also buy elegant and tasteful items that at a beauty to your design.

One natural element that can be used is deadwood which can add cohesiveness to your bonsai. Notes tree branches of the same species can help pull together and natural appearance between tree and ground.

You want to be careful when using deadwood because any type of dead wood could harbor parasites and cause disease to your bonsai. Even long dead branches can decompose adding elements to the soil which are most of the time harmless but sometimes can add to the growth of fungus and bacteria.

You can bleach the dead wood with a mixture of lime and sulfur but for a static purposes this may not be suitable for all kinds of branches. If you do bleach your wood and it comes out to light you can use coffee grounds or stain to darken it up again and make It appear more natural.

You can use in herbicide like Armillatox that has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties or you might try a wood stain as many of these do more than simply change the color of the wood, they also kill organisms.

Some interesting artificial pieces to add under your tree include ceramic or stone sculptures as well as little tiny rocks. Try adding something with Oriental significance like a tiger or dragon. most bonsai artists do not like to use miniature human figures but a tiny ladder leaning against a tree can add a thoughtful touch. tiny miniature frogs which are said to bring lock according to Japanese lore might be added at the base of your bonsai.

And don't forget that your plot is a design element in your bonsai as well. You want to make sure the shape is appropriate for the type of tree in the design you are using. Be sure you get a pot whose color works with your design and blends with any of the ground elements you are using.

Designing your bonsai can be more than just training the tree. With some imagination and thought you can create a little scene that is as unique as you are.