How to Prune a Juniper Bonsai Tree

Juniper bonsai trees are great trees for beginning gardeners to grow. They grow best in direct sunlight and slightly dry soil, so it is easy to water these trees. As long as the tree's pot has drainage holes, you also do not have to worry about giving the juniper bonsai tree too much water. It is important to prune the tree in the spring and throughout the season to help it keep the shape you want.

Garden gloves (optional)

Practice the "finger pinching" method of pruning before you try it on your juniper bonsai tree. The method is to roll the new growth you want to remove between your thumb and forefinger and then give it a sharp twist or a slight tug. This twist or tug will cause a clean cut from the rest of the plant.

Finger pinch unwanted growth in the spring to keep your juniper bonsai tree the shape you want it. You want to begin this once the new growth is about an inch long. Prune it back to about one-half inch. Be careful when pinching back your tree because if you do it incorrectly, such as tugging too hard, you can cause extra strain to the trunk of the tree. You can wear garden gloves to protect your hands if you want.

Pinch back unwanted growth often throughout the growing season until about mid-September.

When you re-pot juniper bonsai trees in the spring, you will also need to prune the roots. Trim the root ball with sharp scissors to about one-half inch. You will want to remove the bulk of the roots from the sides and the bottom.