Kusomono - Can Someone Explain?

[dbonsaiw]

This topic is brought to us by my 9 year old. He collected an Eastern Red Cedar last year that grew like a weed (at least he likes it). The other day, he came back with a tiny collected ERC and explained that this would be "decoration" for his larger ERC like he's seen in pics. He didn't have the word for it, but he was referring to Kusomono. I don't plan on complicating this bonsai process with additional details (I'm limping along as is), but need to ask - what on earth is Kusomono? I understand it is supposed to compliment the tree, and perhaps give off an impression of location and/or season, but I'm not understanding the aesthetic. Insights?

 

[Lutonian]

Kusamono

www.kusamonochoe.com

 

[Wires_Guy_wires]

My interpretation of kusomono is: a planting that enhanced the seasonal feeling and location of a tree.
Like a scroll can as well. For some reason kusomono makes more sense to me than a scroll.

I had a couple going on, then the birds came, now there are none. Not sure if I like kusomono. I've heard some people rent them from growers to present at shows next to their own trees.
But they're fun to play with and they can be made from penny investments or just plain weeds. Which is a fun thing to keep someone busy.
Containers also seem to matter less.

 

[jeffapana]

be careful of your spelling..."kusa" is grass and "kuso" is $h*t ;-)

 

[dbonsaiw]

be careful of your spelling..."kusa" is grass and "kuso" is $h*t ;-)

LOL, thanks. Now I have a better Japanese term to describe my bonsai!

 

[chicago1980]

This link may help add to your understanding:

Shitakusa versus Kusamono

www.cherylpetty.com