Juniper bark...clean or not?

[Poink88]

I don't imagine scale is damaging the bark but if you think it's hiding in it i'd definitely remove it. Use Safari to rid yourself of the scale. I used it two years back to get rid of a really annoying scale that hid under the pine sheath of a black pine. I Killed it all and it never came back. I treated it one in the spring, once in the summer and once in the fall during the first year. Then once in late spring each year after, Safari's amazing stuff as it translocates within the bark and leaves.

Thanks. I am using systemic to kill them all...even the hidden ones. I will hold off buying Safari until then...it is expensive! I know they won't damage the bark BTW.

 

[Poink88]

I would begin by asking myself, why is the bark removed?

The answer is, purely for the appearance. However, it's important to note that juniper with totally smooth almost glossy bark can be found naturally occurring where there is high wind and typically sleet/snow. So it isn't just something crazy bonsai people do, it's something we imitate from nature.

To me, it really depends on what type of tree you're trying to make. Is it a crazy contorted juniper with lots of deadwood or a tranquil looking tree? Everything we do to a tree should reinforce the story we are trying to tell.

Thanks. Perfect, that is in line with doing it when the shari is applied.

 

[fore]

I've been told to leave the bark on collected juni's till established to prevent moisture loss. After established, remove to inspect and remove if any, borers.

 

[Poink88]

I've been told to leave the bark on collected juni's till established to prevent moisture loss. After established, remove to inspect and remove if any, borers.

Thanks Chris. Sounds like a good reason to remove the bark. Will the borers be obvious and easily spotted or not?

 

[fore]

You have to investigate every hole with a pointed object to make sure nothing is there, but typ. you see sawdust and sap if it's presently active.

 

[Vance Wood]

I checked before treatment and it is a mix. Most are dead but some are alive. I used a systemic (Bayer Tree & Shrub) not instant but should get them in a few days.

If you look hard enough at the left branch, near the label tape w/date...you can see some of them to the right and under the tape. But they are everywhere including under the bark plate/flakes.

As to the scale: If you can see them pick them off by hand or use a tooth brush. I hate using chems when alternatives are an option.

As to the red bark. It seems that the red smooth bark is more in harmony to the dead wood displays common in most Juniper Bonsai.

 

[october]

One important piece of information is that bark stripping is utilized when the tree is ready for it. It is more important to ask that question, rather than should or shouldn't. Sometimes a tree is not ready to let it's bark go and it can be damaged in trying to remove it. Always inspect and assess it first.

Rob