Bonsai Tree Care

How To Care For A Dwarf Juniper Bonsai Tree

Originating from Japan, the dwarf juniper bonsai tree (Juniper Procumbens Nana also known as “Karate Kid”) is typically the tree that springs to mind when people think of bonsai trees. In Japan, this plant is grown outdoors in direct sunlight, however due to changing season in other countries, this tree is now grown indoors.

Lighting and Temperature

If like most people, you plan on growing a dwarf juniper indoors, make sure that it has at least two hours of direct sunlight a day. Also to avoid the plant drying out, do not place it under air conditioning as this could kill it. The roots will also need protected from heat and cold.

Watering

It is very important not to over water this plant, watering should be done in small doses. Keep a watchful eye over the soil every day to make sure that the soil hasn’t dried out. If you do keep this bonsai outdoors, then watering is only required every couple of days.

Soil Feeding

With bonsai trees you need to be patient in terms of growth. Do not use fertilizers to speed the process up. You will need to feed your bonsai but only when needed and in moderate amounts.

Pruning and Sculpting

You need to remove most of the plant’s new growth during the spring and perhaps the fall. Remember to do this with an artistic eye. Every other year you will also need to remove the plant from it’s pot and trim the roots. Do not remove more than 30% of the roots in one year.

In Winter

As long as the juniper bonsai has direct sunlight for energy, they can easily withstand freezing temperatures. In fact, the cold can positively help the plant complete it’s growth cycle.
dwarf juniper from bonsai boy

Starter Kits

For those of you who have never bought a bonsai tree then buying a kit is ideal as you don’t have the confusion of what you need to buy. It contains a 3 year old plant, ceramic pot, soil, wire and more…

Tags: Dwarf Juniper Bonsai Tree, Juniper Bonsai Tree