Groundcover junipers are hardy, low-growing plants ideal for various landscaping needs. Perfect for filling difficult spaces, these junipers, also known as creeping cedars or creeping junipers, feature needle-shaped leaves. They excel as groundcovers, in containers, and are cherished in the bonsai community. At Plants by Mail, you can find several types of junipers, each guaranteed to arrive healthy and vibrant. Plus, you'll receive expert care instructions to ensure your plants thrive.
Why Should I Plant Groundcover Juniper?
Juniper is a favored ornamental garden plant due to its year-round visual appeal, adaptability to various climates, and low maintenance needs.
Are Groundcover Junipers Low Maintenance?
Yes, groundcover junipers are low maintenance. Once established, they require minimal care, thriving in various soil conditions and needing only occasional watering. Their hardy nature and resistance to pests and diseases make them an excellent choice for easy landscaping.
Groundcover Juniper vs. Juniper Trees
Taller juniper varieties, in contrast, grow as elegant trees, offering striking vertical elements to any landscape. At Plants by Mail, you can find several types of junipers, each guaranteed to arrive healthy and vibrant. Blue Point, Spartan and Hollywood are some our favorite trees here at PBM. On the other hand... Blue Rug, Nana and Blue Star are amazing, low growing junipers that remain popular year after year.
Planting groundcover junipers is a great way to add a low-maintenance, evergreen option to your garden or landscape. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
How To Plant Creeping Juniper Plants
Materials Needed:
- Groundcover juniper plants
- Shovel or spade
- Mulch
- Watering can or garden hose
- Compost or soil conditioner (optional)
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Choose the Right Location:
- Select a sunny spot where the junipers will receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Ensure the area has well-draining soil, as junipers do not thrive in waterlogged conditions.
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Prepare the Soil:
- Clear the planting area of any weeds or debris.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12-15 inches using a shovel or garden fork.
- Mix in compost or soil conditioner if your soil is heavy clay or sandy to improve drainage and fertility.
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Spacing:
- Determine the spacing based on the mature spread of the specific juniper variety. Generally, space them about 3-6 feet apart to allow room for growth and prevent overcrowding.
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Planting:
- Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the juniper.
- Gently remove the juniper from its container, loosening the roots if they are tightly bound.
- Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the hole with soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.
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Watering:
- Water the newly planted juniper thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
- Continue to water regularly, especially during the first growing season, to help establish a strong root system. Once established, junipers are quite drought-tolerant.
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Mulching:
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
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Maintenance:
- Prune sparingly to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if desired, but junipers generally do well without frequent fertilization.