My Juniper Bonsai Won't Recover From Pruning

Timing

• A juniper grown as a bonsai responds best to pinching completed after flushes of growth. The flushes represent the tree’s active growth and show the juniper is able to repair its wounds. During active growth, damaged and vigorously growing branches may also be cut back with little injury to the tree.

Intolerance

• The tree should be trimmed back and shaped gradually over several growing seasons to prevent permanent injury and cessation of growth. Always use sharp, sterile shears and make flush cuts to promote rapid healing.

Pinching

• Pinching is the best way to control the tree’s shape and promote its good health. Thin the needles and buds at the apex to promote even vigor toward the middle and bottom of the tree. Remove the identified needles using your thumb and forefinger. Grasp the needle and gently twist it from the branch. Restrict pruning to early spring.

Patience

• If you have pruned more than one-third of the juniper’s growth and roots, or have pruned the juniper in an untimely fashion, it is likely that your juniper will struggle. Before you take drastic measures, allow the tree time to repair itself. It can take as long as a full growing season for a severely pruned juniper to heal and recover.

Care

• Avoid the use of fertilizer for at least two weeks after pruning to allow the tree time to re-establish. Keep it well-irrigated. Provide it with a deep irrigation just as the soil begins to feel somewhat dry. Pour tepid water evenly around the base until the excess water runs from the drainage holes. Never allow the soil to dry out completely.

Environment

• Although a juniper grows best in full sunlight, a freshly pruned tree responds best in a partially shaded location. Move it to a warm location that receives full morning sunlight with partially shaded afternoon and evening sunlight. Keep the tree in place for several weeks to a month to allow it time to repair itself.