The juniper plant is a slow-growing, adaptable plant. The juniper can range from a very short shrub, maturing at approximately 4 feet in height, to a dense columnar tree, reaching up to 13 feet tall. The juniper produces ellipsoid cones which contain up to three seeds each. The foliage is green with a silver appearance and brown fibrous bark.
Plant the juniper in an indoor or outdoor location. Choose a location that provides at least 6 to 8 hours of full to partially shaded sunlight. Ensure that the planting area or potting container provides ample drainage. The juniper will tolerate all soil types and will quickly adapt to the soil’s pH levels.
Water the juniper tree lightly. Provide the outdoor tree with 1/2 to 1 inch of water each week. Increase the irrigation levels slightly during the hot, dry summer months. Avoid watering in the winter months.
Water the indoor juniper only as needed. Check the soil’s moisture levels by sticking your finger 1 to 2 inches deep into the soil. Irrigate the juniper when the soil’s moisture levels feel dry. Avoid overwatering the tree.
Mulch the outdoor juniper’s planting area to promote moisture levels and reduce weed invasion. Apply a layer of mulch approximately 1 to 2 inches thick. Increase the thickness of the mulch during the winter months to 4 to 6 inches thick.
Feed the juniper tree during its growing months, from April through October. Select a well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and micronutrients in an acid-loving mixture. Apply the fertilizer monthly, distributing the mixture evenly around the area. Water the fertilizer into the soil according to the directions.
Prune the juniper lightly, only as required. Junipers require minimal pruning maintenance throughout their lifespan and will not develop new growth from pruned areas. Pinch away new growth to control the size of the tree. Avoid using scissors or pruning shears.
