Bonsai Juniper

Posted by Hannah Brand on Sep 8th 2024

Weekly Plant Chat: Bonsai Juniper

Hey Plant Friends!

This week we are talking about Juniper in the bonsai form. If you are thinking about starting your bonsai journey, Juniper is a great place to start. Bonsai plants make great gifts as they are known to bring good luck and are a way to celebrate the beauty of nature on a miniature scale. Bonsai Juniper are known for their blue-ish evergreen foliage and easy care.

Family of Origin

Juniper belongs to the Cupressaceae plant family and are native to Europe, Asia, and North America.

Plant Care

Light

Bonsai, and specifically junier when grown in the bonsai for prefer bright light. Provide at least 3 hours of bright light for maximum growth and plant health. Supplement with a grow light during the winter months if needed.

Soil

Use a bonsai specific potting mix such as the Espoma's Organic Bonsai Potting Mix. It’s time to repot when you notice the soil is not able to hold water. Some varieties need to be repotted every 2-3 years; others can go as long as 5 years as bonsai like to be pot tight.

Water

Allow your soil to dry 1”-2” inches down before giving your Juniper a good soak. Never allow soil to dry out all the way. Junipers require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.

Fertilizer

Fertilize with an all purpose fertilizer. We recommend Schultz All Purpose Liquid Plant Food. As growth slows in the winter months, fertilize at half strength.

Hot Tips

Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealy bugs, scale, and spider mites. Check for pests weekly while watering and keep a bottle of Bonide’s Insecticidal Soap on hand for easy treatment

Prune your juniper to keep its shape. Perform root pruning while repotting.

Juniper are toxic to our furry friends.