bonmore
User Karma: 7
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Re:Juniper Bonsai conditi 2008/04/22 08:16
Hi never65' Junipers are outdoor plants, however with good lighting they will TOLERATE indoor growing conditions. I grow my Junipers outdoors in a semi-shaded area where they are in the morning sun, watering in the morning every other day, do not allow the soil to dry out completely. Fertilize with 20-20-20 every 2-3 weeks. In my opinion, Spider mite is the killer of most Junipers. Second biggest killer is insufficient lighting indoors. If I see inner foliage browning, I will place a white sheet of paper under the infected area and tap this area until brown dust and foliage collects on the paper, paying careful attention to this residue you will see the smallest black specks moving around (be patient because they will play possum for 20-30 seconds). They are sooo small that 20 of them will fit on the head if a straight pin. Insecticide spray will kill the Mites however I am a firm believer in natural Ingredient insect control. A level teaspoon of Dawn or Lux Liquid in a 16oz. sprayer is user friendly. Spray this mixture on the plant turning it into a large soap sud, leave for at least 30 mins. on the plant then rinse off, it is okay if the solution washes through the root system. The oils in the soap mixture will kill all kind of insects (even Wasps). The only downfall of this method is that it is a contact killer and eggs will hatch, therefore it is advisable to repeat every three days for at least 2-3 more applications. A monthly application will help control scale, mealy bug, aphids and Spider mite.
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