Proper watering is essential. Plants that can be lifted should be submerged in water and then allowed to drain thoroughly. Larger plants benefit from watering with a hose attachment that will shower the plant and soak the soil. Overwatering can be as detrimental as underwatering. One of the goals of bonsai is for a plant to achieve a pleasant shape.
Some plants lend themselves to an upright posture.
Others lean over and still others are cascading plants. The shapes can be achieved through trimming and training trunks or branches with wire. Sometimes shape gives way to arrangement. For example, maple trees in bonsai form are arranged in groups, creating a miniature forest. A trunk with character is also of great value.