September’s meeting focuses on one of the most underestimated decisions in bonsai: choosing the right pot. A well-chosen pot can elevate a tree, while a poor choice can undermine years of careful development. This session is designed to help members understand what really makes a pot work — aesthetically, practically, and horticulturally.
The evening will be led by Ian Homer, who will guide members through the principles of pot selection, including size, depth, colour, shape, and finish. Discussion will centre on how pots interact with tree style, species, and stage of development, and how to avoid common mismatches.
Members are encouraged to bring along empty pots they already own. Through group discussion and comparison, you’ll explore what type of tree would best suit each pot, and why. This is an excellent way to gain value from pots that may otherwise sit unused or feel difficult to match.
Alternatively, if you’re unsure whether one of your trees is currently in the right pot, bring it along. The session will include constructive critique of existing tree-and-pot combinations, helping members identify whether changes would improve balance, proportion, or overall presentation.
The meeting will also cover practical and creative solutions, including the use of washing-up bowls and other temporary containers during development. Understanding when a tree benefits from refinement versus unrestricted growth is key to making informed potting decisions.
All members are encouraged to attend. If you have questions about what to bring or whether your pots or trees are suitable, please email chair@redditchbonsai.co.uk or secretary@redditchbonsai.co.uk.
Ian Homer is a well-known and highly respected figure within the UK bonsai community, combining decades of practical bonsai experience with specialist expertise in bonsai pottery. Ian is the potter behind Maple Leaf Ceramics, a range of hand-crafted bonsai pots designed specifically to complement tree form, development stage, and long-term horticultural needs.
Working from Walsall Bonsai Studio, Ian brings a rare dual perspective to bonsai education: that of both a bonsai practitioner and a ceramic artist. This allows him to approach pot selection not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of the design process — balancing aesthetics, proportion, colour, and function.
Ian was welcomed to Redditch Bonsai Society for his first ever club talk in 2024, an evening that was widely appreciated for its practical insight and accessible teaching style. It is a pleasure to welcome him back to Redditch, particularly for a session focused on finding “that perfect pot.”
Through Maple Leaf Ceramics, Ian produces individual, hand-built bonsai containers rather than mass-produced pots. This gives him deep insight into how subtle differences in depth, lip profile, corner treatment, and glaze choice affect the way a tree is perceived — knowledge that translates directly into better decision-making for growers at all levels.
Ian’s approach is grounded, practical, and encouraging. Whether advising on refined exhibition trees, early development material, or the use of temporary containers such as washing-up bowls, his guidance helps demystify pot choice and gives growers confidence to make informed, purposeful decisions.
Redditch Bonsai Society (RBS) is a friendly and practical bonsai club serving Redditch and the wider Midlands. The society welcomes members at all stages of their bonsai journey, from complete beginners to experienced growers.
Meetings focus on real-world bonsai practice, including tree development, styling, horticulture, critique, and display. Members are encouraged to bring their own trees, pots, and questions, making each session interactive and relevant.
Prospective members with a growing interest in bonsai are very welcome. You don’t need a finished tree or specialist equipment to get involved — curiosity and enthusiasm are enough to get started.
No. You can bring empty pots, trees, or simply attend to learn from discussion and examples.
That’s perfectly fine. The session will explain when temporary containers are appropriate and when a change may be beneficial.
Yes. Pot choice is relevant at every stage of bonsai development, and beginners often gain clarity early by understanding these principles.
Prospective members are welcome to enquire about attending a meeting.
Email chair@redditchbonsai.co.uk or secretary@redditchbonsai.co.uk with any enquiries.
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