Hello,

I have never owned a bonsai before. I believe this is a juniper tree, but that's all I know. This tree was given to me as a gift. Unfortunately, I live in a rental so I cannot plant this tree outside. I feel bad that this poor thing has been given to me. How can I avoid killing it? And what things do I need to get to keep it alive? I'm not too worried about shaping it (I think), just keeping it alive. Although if you have any shaping tips that you think would be easy for a beginner, feel free to share them.

It IS going to die indoors.
Can't you just give it away to someone else who has a good garden, outdoors?

That is disappointing. The person who sold it to my grandmother assured her it would be just fine in an office environment. She got it because I had mentioned that I needed to liven up my office. I guess the guy was just trying to make a sale?

Allies_Tree wrote: That is disappointing. The person who sold it to my grandmother assured her it would be just fine in an office environment. She got it because I had mentioned that I needed to liven up my office. I guess the guy was just trying to make a sale?

Indeed, like in 90 percent of the cases on this forum, where people think they bought a bonsai, while what they actually got is just a fancy young plant that hasn't got anything to do with the art of bonsai. At least, not being worried about shaping it, but keeping it alive, you got your priorities right.

Not really sure if it's a juniper. Can you post a close-up of the foliage? Looking at the shape of the needles and the color I'm wondering if it could be a cryptomeria.



An office is rarely a good environment for any plants, let alone bonsai.

I attached a closeup.

Maybe the tree is better off with someone else, though I don't know anyone who would want to put the time in to take care of it. I might be able to find a way to move it outside, but would it be okay? I live in New England and it's still pretty cold.

Looks like a Juniper those awful stones are not helping either.

Allies_Tree wrote: I live in New England and it's still pretty cold.

Look indoors. Do you see any trees growing there, naturally? Now, look outside.