In the beginning...

[1John 3:16]

Hello all!
This is my 3rd attempt at bonsai, unforseen circumstances didn't allow for a bonsai garden.
Now, I have 1 Carolina Cypress, 1 Japanese Red Maple and some Lemon and Apple tree seeds, some already in a pot others germinating.
I do understand the Carolina Cypress isn't one that is suggested, but I love the color of the tree and would like to try my hand with this type of Cypress.

My question: I think I'd like to do a root over rock or an informal upright or combine the two. I'm looking for style suggestions for my Carolina Cypress. Does anyone have some input?

 

[Cadillactaste]

I highly suggest studying ROR in Google image. That honestly is where I draw inspiration from.

 

[Bonsai Nut]

Don't just Google images of bonsai, either. Check images on the Internet for trees growing on rocks, or old cypresses, etc.

I find it helpful to have a photo or two on hand as reference material as I style a tree. It keeps me from styling the tree as a "bonsai" instead of as a tree in nature, and helps keep me from getting stale by applying the same rules to trees one after the other.

 

[1John 3:16]

Great advice, I have kind of been thinking that already. I don't like to follow rules but I'd love to let the tree do its thing naturally!
I've been researching growth rates, ideal environment, feeding times etc. For this lil gal so I can, hopefully get best results by letting it grow naturally.

 

[Cadillactaste]

Great advice, I have kind of been thinking that already. I don't like to follow rules but I'd love to let the tree do its thing naturally!
I've been researching growth rates, ideal environment, feeding times etc. For this lil gal so I can, hopefully get best results by letting it grow naturally.

I'm still a sucker for sinuous movement in a trunk for ROR. Hanging out over a cliff. Winged elm. Especially for the smaller scale trees. But honestly...ROR is so cool...that even without the movement...its cool.

 

[sorce]

Welcome to Crazy 3rd!

Sorce

 

[Leo in N E Illinois]

Do you happen to know the botanical name of your Carolina cypress? That is a name I have never heard before.