Juniper Bonsai
The hardy juniper can grow on mountains
Juniper is a popular bonsai tree. There are more than 50 species of this evergreen shrub and they are frequently found on hillsides and mountains. Some of the classic Japanese juniper bonsai are more than 200 years old.
Juniper is a hardy variety and should be kept outdoors throughout the year. It can withstand frost and will only need protection if temperatures are consistently below freezing.
Juniper thrives in full sun but can tolerate semi shade. Without sunlight there is a risk that branches will wither and die.
Most styles are suitable for juniper bonsai. You will often see cascade styles which mimic the natural habitat of the tree, clinging to the mountainside. Sharis reflect the large sections of deadwood often observed in nature.
A popular bonsai species is Chinese Juniper (Juniperus chinensis) which is quite easy to grow. You can achieve wonderful colour contrasts between the green foliage, grey-brown outer bark, orange-red under bark and the white-silver sharis and jins.
Juniper branches are relatively easy to wire but can take some time to set in position. Branches which are a couple of years old respond better to wiring than older ones which are thicker and more rigid.
Ensure that there is sufficient water during the growing season but take care not to over water as juniper is susceptible to root rot. So it is important to use free draining porous soil. Feed on a regular basis, omitting nitrogen in the autumn.
To maintain the right silhouette, continual pinching out of all growing tips is essential. It is best to wait a few weeks after growth has started in the spring before starting to pinch out. Use fingers and not scissors or the ends will turn brown.
Repotting should be carried out regularly, every two years initially and then less frequently. Mid spring is the best time for repotting though it can be done later.
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