New to bonsai and have beginner's question

Hello All,

I recently received a juniper for my desk at the office. The tree was shipped to my office in a box and was already potted with soil. However accompanied with the plant was a bag of pebbles. I am not sure what I am supposed to do with them? Could someone please explain?

Thanks,

Jason

P.S. The plant also came with a drip tray.

The pebbles are for the top of the soil. If you google some pictures of bonsai you will see that the top of the soil is usually pebbles. Soil is a extensive topic and has started many pages of posts. Best thing you can do is do some research on the type of tree it is and what type of bonsai soil you should use. Also, the tree you have is an outdoor tree. You need to keep it outside 90% of the time. Also, allow the soil to try out before watering, junipers do not like it saturated. If you want an indoor tree look for a tropical, like a Ficus. Hope it was helpful. Best of luck.

Thanks for the information Joe. Here's another stupid question: How much of the pebbles should I use and if the soil reaches the top of the pot should I remove some to make space for the pebbles?

Jason

What size are the "pebbles"? If they are pea size and smaller, they are supposedly to place on top of the planting media. If they are grape-size or larger they were intended to be placed in the "drip tray". Regardless, Joe is right. Junipers have to be outside in a relatively sunny spot.

The pebbles are pea-like so I guess I will be placing them atop the soil. Thanks for the suggestions...I'll be sure to get it outside too.

Jason

Mind, you don't HAVE to use the pebbles.

Really? Well, then I will just hold onto them. Thanks.

Jason