3" Bonsai Tree in Wood Grain Ceramic

Japanese Juniper Tree 3 years old grown from seed

 How to Care for a Juniper Bonsai Tree

These bonsai can tolerate rookie errors and accidental periods of neglect much better than other species; however, you’ll still need to understand the basic care your tree needs. While these guidelines will set you on the right track, remember: every tree is different.Observe your tree closely, get to know it, and adjust your care as needed. 

1. Position

Juniper bonsai like to be outside in a bright location. Place them somewhere they can receive at least four hours of sunlight a day, with a little afternoon shade. While they’ll be happy outdoors year-round in most locations, you’ll want to mulch, cover, or bring it to a cold spot indoors if temperatures frequently drop below 15ºF (-10ºC).

Bonsai Beware: While juniper bonsai keep their foliage all year, a frost-protection mechanism in some species causes their needles to turn purple-brown. Don’t panic! Your tree isn’t dying. The green colors will return once temperatures are on the rise. 

Can Juniper Bonsai Grow Indoors?

Most bonsai varieties are happiest outdoors. (They’re trees after all!) But juniper bonsai trees can tolerate indoor growing if they’re kept in the right conditions. Providing adequate light, temperature, and humidity levels will be your biggest challenge. 

2. Watering

One reason juniper bonsai can handle a little neglect is because they’re one of the few varieties that don’t mind a missed bath. In fact, they’re more vulnerable to overwatering than mild thirst. Saturate thoroughly at bath time, and allow the soil to dry out completely between watering. (PSA: Your tree will still suffer if exposed to prolonged dryness, so don’t go overboard!)

Watering Pro Tips

• Make sure the excess water drains from the pot after watering, as waterlogged junipers are prone to root rot.
• Juniper bonsai like a higher level of humidity, which can be supplemented by misting the leaves every few days.
• In the summer, water twice a day in the morning and evening; avoid watering in midday, when the harsh sun can burn the leaves. 
• In the winter, water once or twice a week—and never when it’s below freezing.  

3. Feeding

During the growing season, you’ll want to feed your tree once per month if using solid fertilizer, and weekly if using a traditional liquid solution.  

4. Pruning & Trimming

Prune your bonsai during the growing season, from spring to late summer. To keep your tree short, pinch back new shoots once they’re about an inch in length. Rather than pruning the tree’s whole canopy (i.e., trimming needle tips like a haircut), entirely remove the needles to thin out the foliage. 

Info credited to https://bonsairesourcecenter.com