AusBonsai

Hi All,

I have recently noticed a white powdery type crust forming on some of the lower needles and I guess probably older needles of my tree. I have noticed this on the odd occasion in the past, maybe a tiny branch here or there, but not this much ever.

To help, I will give my context on what I do...

- water every 1-3 days depending on temperature
- bonsais sit outside on the balcony. They get morning sun or afternoon sun depending on where I place them and temperature
- watering takes place at night mostly and then morning any other time
- I water the soil but occasionally mist needles when they are out of the sun
- fertilise using liquid (weekly) and balls


I've attached some images which hope help tell the story. I have attached one showing some really nice solid green growth so you can see the difference.

Any advice or solutions will be fantastic
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That silvering on the leaves looks like mite damage. They are pretty small and not easy to see. Try tapping the branch over a sheet of white paper and see if you can spot the tiny mites crawling on the paper.
I would spray as soon as possible with something that will control mites.
Eco Oil is a relatively safe spray that will kill mites and should be safe for the juniper but you do need so cover all parts of the plant - both sides of all leaves, etc. You may need to spray again in a few weeks to kill any that hatch after the first spray.

Thanks Shibui. I'll have a look at some sprays. Once sprayed and the potential bugs are gone, will the needles return to their green self or best to prune back?

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I think the damaged leaves are permanently damaged but new ones will grow and soon you will not know the difference. I think it is best to leave it to recover before pruning or doing any other work.

Got eco neem last night as Bunnings didn't have any eco oil. Seems to be just a concentrate of eco oil and is compatible. I shook a branch last night and about 10 little mites fell off! Disgusting....

I sprayed it last night, I'll update with any issues.

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Not all insecticides treat mites but Eco-neem does have mites listed so it should be fine. Remember to spray thoroughly - all sides of all branches and leaves to make contact with all of the little buggers. A follow up spray in a week or 2 should pick up any newly hatched and any you missed first time round.