Juniper Bonsai Tree

Discussion about the bonsai tree is almost incomplete without the memories of the bonsai tree collection of Mr. Miyagi in 'The Karate Kid'. Well, it is the same tree that we are talking about, the juniper bonsai tree! Evergreen bonsai trees from Japan are hugely popular in the United States. Many of the trees are cultured as bonsai but for a layman, juniper tree is a starter. Where do juniper trees grow? These trees are widely distributed throughout the northern Hemisphere. Juniper trees are found in various shapes and sizes, ranging from ground coverings, shrubs to huge trees. The size of the juniper tree ranges from 4" ground covers to big trees. The colors of the leaves vary from yellow, silvery blue to natural green.

Juniper Bonsai Tree
Juniper bonsai trees are the popular choice among the bonsai lovers because of their superb adaptability to almost any temperature and their spreading habitat. Many bonsai shops feature sparkling rocks encrusted bonsai trays that enhances the beauty of the juniper evergreen tree. The juniper bonsai trees are available in various sizes, the heights ranging from 1 inch to 40 inches. The most famous types of juniper bonsai tree are:

• Dwarf Garden Juniper: This juniper tree is also known as 'juniperus procumbens nana'. It requires a lot of water, sunlight and humidity, so it is mostly popular amongst the bonsai aficionados.
• Shimpaku Juniper: The scientific name being 'juniperus chinensis sargentii', it is a highly adaptive plant and has tender year-round foliage and a subtle bark that gets peeled off in a fully grown plant.
• Rigid Needles Juniper: Its scientific name is 'juniperus rigida'. This plant is the most tender amongst them all and needs a lot of care when grown indoors. The foliage of the tree is bluish green and needle-like.
• Green Mound Chinese Juniper: This type of juniper tree can grow well in cold temperatures, as well because the original habitat of this juniper plant is the mountainous region, to be precise, 3,000 feet above sea level. Green mound Chinese juniper is a famous bonsai tree all over the world.

Juniper Tree Facts
There are at least 50 juniper tree species present today, all with their own specialties. Juniper trees are evergreen, long lived, they can adapt to any soil type. They are dioecious (having separate male and female plants) as well. Juniper is a multipurpose tree, which is why prehistoric people lived near juniper forest, which became a prime source for their food and shelter. The juniper berries are used for making spices, medicines, as well as liquor products like gin. One can also make a hedge with the juniper trees, they create great outdoor ambiance. Junipers prefer plenty of sunlight, so those of you who live in a snowy region must opt for the indoor juniper trees. The juniper bonsai is a symbol of fertility, strength and athleticism and they are a very popular plant for indoor gardening.

Caring for Juniper Bonsai Tree

• Juniper Tree Light: Juniper tree requires bright sunlight in order to develop fully. One must provide their juniper bonsai trees with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight every day.
• Juniper Tree Watering: As stated earlier, juniper bonsai tree grows well in soil that is always moist and humid. So, one must always maintain the water level all the time. During the summer season, it is a must to spray water on the tree foliage.
• Juniper Tree Feeding: Fertilizers with balanced pH level is required for the healthy growth of juniper bonsai tree. The juniper is a coniferous tree that requires several feedings containing acidic fertilizers. The tree must get less feeding during the summer season and after the it is repotted.
• Juniper Tree Pruning: The best time for pruning juniper bonsai tree is during summer and spring. Wires and wire cutters are used to give juniper trees the desired shape. You may also need knob cutters, soil sieves, trunk benders and root hooks for the proper pruning of juniper bonsai trees. Pruning should be done when the tree has grown plenty of foliage.

Bonsai tree care is easy. However, don't pamper the juniper bonsai too much, as it can work in an extremely negative way for the plant. Hence, don't over feed or over water the juniper bonsai. Juniper bonsai tree can be your biggest style statement. They can give a rich feel to any interior decor themes. Place your juniper bonsai tree near a window, as a centerpiece or at any place you like and your work is done. You can rest the job of mesmerizing others on this beautiful miniature, that is the juniper bonsai tree.