Low growing junipers are frequently highlighted in WNC landscapes. These versatile plants come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and colors. Most are pest and disease free. Here are three favorite easy-care varieties to consider. All are best in full sun.
• Grey Owl (Juniperus virginiana ‘Grey Owl’) is my favorite narrow-leafed evergreen. A moderate grower to 3-4 feet tall and 6 feet wide, Grey Owl is perfect for planting in large groups on hillsides as a grey-green ground cover and/or for erosion control. They are drought tolerant once established, and will do well in partial shade. If used as a ground cover pruning would be required only to remove damaged limbs.
• Youngstown (Juniperus horizontalis ‘Youngstown’) grows moderately to 1 foot tall and 6 feet wide. The best feature of this deer-resistant plant is foliage that turns from grey-green in summer to plum in winter.
• Sargent (Juniperus chinensis ‘Sargentii’) is a brighter green than the others in this list. Particularly useful for erosion control, Sargents grow rapidly to 18 to 24 inches tall and 7 to 9 feet wide. They will take some salt exposure and do well along commercial drives or sidewalks.
BRIGHT GREEN — The Sargent Juniper is brighter green than most other junipers.
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Before planting get a soil test to determine if any amendments need to be added. Junipers like an acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 6.
Our normal red soil is ideal, but be careful next to foundations, drives, and walks, where leaching from concrete can increase the pH dramatically. Water thoroughly immediately after planting and every few days for a couple of weeks. Water deeply on a regular basis for the first two years. Once established, junipers shouldn’t require watering except in extreme droughts.
Don’t fertilize for the first couple of months until the roots are established, then add a light application of a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) every other month until mid-summer. Fertilize once in spring the second and third years. You shouldn’t have to fertilize after that unless a soil test shows a deficiency.
Do you have a home gardening question? Email HaywoodEMGV@gmail.com or call 828-456-3575 with a description of the issue. A Haywood County Master Gardener Volunteer will get back to you within a couple of days with research-based information.
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