Styles / Pruning / Training: Pinch out the tender new shoots continuously during the growing season. Pinch off undesirable new growth and prune unwanted branches when repotting or during the growing season. Wiring is best done in autumn or in early winter so that the tree can become accustomed to the new positioning while the tree is dormant. Wiring during the growing season must be carefully watched for wire cutting into the branches, and removed immediately.
Light / Water requirements: Water the juniper when the soil is dry to a depth of approximately 1 inch down from the top of the pot. Do not let the soil dry out completely. Mist the foilage with water daily during the growing season, but this is not a replacement for proper watering. A humidity tray is suggested. Full sun is best for the juniper.
Propagation: Can be propagated from ripe wood heel cuttings and air layering succesfully.
Repotting Special Instructions: When repotting, reduce the roots gradually, removing no more than 1/3 of the roots at each repotting. Repot young trees (up to 10 years old) every 2 years. Repot older trees every 3 - 4 years. Repotting is best done in the spring or fall but can be done most of the year. The recommended soil mix is 60% soil, 10% peat and 30% coarse sand. An alternative is 3 parts coarse sand, 1 part peat and 1 part loam soil. Protect the tree from wind and direct sun in a shady location for a month or two after repotting.
Insects and Diseases: Junipers are a favorite of the red spider mite. If the tree appears weak, with yellowing foilage, it may have spider mites. To check for spider mites, hold a sheet of white paper under a branch and gently shake the foilage. If the paper comes away with small dots that move... it has spider mites. Spray infected plants with insecticidal soap.
Temperature Requirements: Protect roots from freezing and protect the plant at below 32 degrees F. even though some say they can handle temperatures down to 10 degrees F. Plants left outdoors in extreme cold temperatures should be responsibly protected either by covering with a deep layer of mulch or protective coverings.
Winter Care: To maintain good health, Juniper bonsai should be kept in a cool (under 60 degrees F) during the winter months so they may experience a dormancy or rest period. Protect the juniper from extreme cold and drying conditions during this time.
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