Caring For Juniper

Spring
Spread a layer of some organic material such as chopped leaves, wood chips or dried grass clippings on the soil under Junipers.

Summer
Juniper trees need supplemental watering most when they're first planted and late fall before the ground freezes. Young trees, and even mature trees, may need watering during periods of prolonged drought.

Fall
Junipers are not heavy feeders. Fertilize younger trees once a year in the fall. Sprinkle two cupfuls or so of granular all-purpose fertilizer on the soil under each tree out to a foot or so beyond the tips of the branches. Do not allow the fertilizer to touch the tree trunk.

Winter
Most Junipers respond well to pruning. When sheared, they make good hedges. When pruning shrub forms, keep in mind that once lower branches are removed, they will never grow back. To keep tall-growing types under some control, clip half of the new growth on each stem every year. The best time to prune Junipers is late winter or early spring. The prickly foliage of Junipers can give some yardeners a rash. It is a good idea to wear long sleeves and gloves when pruning Junipers. Most Junipers respond well to pruning for shape and to encourage compactness.

Occasionally rodents nest in winter mulch under young trees and gnaw at their tender bark. Wait until the ground freezes hard before spreading the thicker winter mulch to deny them a nesting spot.. Wrap cedar stems with hardware cloth or commercial tree guards.

• Juniper Bushes Have Light Green Tips