Trunk movement, arrangement of roots and branches, the position of the tree in the pot, the stance of the tree- all have a profound impact on whether the tree looks natural and harmonious or precarious and unbalanced.

The stance of the tree, the angle of its first movement from the ground, has a significant bearing on balance. Very small changes in this can make the tree look settled and imbue it with naturalness.

A simple way of balancing the tree is by bringing the apex in line with and directly above the base of the tree.

An asymmetric balance is sought by harmonising different elements and masses.

The trunk leans to the right and is balanced by a greater proportion of the root mass falling on the opposite side. Balance is further reinforced by positioning the tree to the left of centre in the pot.

The deployment of negative spaces at various levels on either side of the tree is a useful aid to balance.The sizes and shapes of negative areas can be used to reinforce asymmetrical balance and create interest.

The selection of branches, their angles with the trunk, their relative lengths and even their movement, whether straight and forceful,or angular or curved, are very effective in producing the most satisfying sense of balance.There is considerable scope for variation and individual expression here.

As time changes the relative visual mass of elements, a dynamic balance can be looked for. Each change brings with it the possibility of subtle nuances that may reveal a different balance and a new facet of the tree.