Care guide for the Juniper Bonsai tree (Juniperus)

The Juniperus is a genus of over thirty species of coniferous shrubs, very popular for Bonsai purposes. The classic species is the ‘Chinese Juniper’ (Juniperus chinensis), also popular are the Juniperus Squamata, Sargentii, Sabina, Rigida and Communis. The range of foliage colors ranges from dark blue-greens to light greens. The tree is very suitable for creating deadwood (Jin and Shari).

Position: Place the tree outside, year-round, on a bright spot with lots of sunlight. The Juniper does not grow well indoors. During the winter protect the tree once temperatures drop below -10 degrees C (14F).

Watering: Be careful not to water too much, as the Juniper prefers short periods of relative drought. Misting the tree can be done regularly, especially after the tree has been repotted.

Feeding: Use a normal fertilizer every month during the spring and summer; possibly apply some higher nitrogen levels in early spring.

Pruning: To develop the foliage, pinch out new shoots throughout the growth season. Do not use Bonsai scissors, as the cut will turn the needles brown. The Juniper is a strong three that withstands aggressive pruning quite well.

Repotting: Once every two years, using a basic (or somewhat more draining) soil mixture.

Propagation: Use seeds or cuttings.

Example of a Juniper Foemina bonsai tree:

More information
For tree identification see the Bonsai care forum. General guidelines can be found in our Bonsai care section.