- Reasons to cut
- When: Whenever there is no frost
- How to properly prune a creeping juniper
- Shape cutting is tolerated unconditionally
- Wear protection - prick the needles
Whether as ground cover for slopes and roadsides, for planters as year-round decoration or as trimmed bonsai - caring for the creeping juniper is uncomplicated. But does that apply to all areas, including cutting?
Creeping juniper can be cut anytime as long as it is not freezing
Reasons to cut
There are several reasons why a cut of the creeping juniper can be useful:
- promotes new growth
- denser, more compact growth
- Removal of diseased parts
- for shaping (e.g. bonsai design)
- for obtaining cuttings for propagation
When: Whenever there is no frost
You can cut the creeping juniper whenever you want, provided there is no frost. But it is advisable to cut it in spring before new shoots sprout or in autumn between August and October. During cutting, the sun should not shine and there should be no rain.
How to properly prune a creeping juniper
When cutting, keep these aspects in mind:
- green branches can be cut
- cut at the branch forks
- don't cut into old wood
- It is better to remove old shoots completely
- Cut shoot tips for denser growth
- wipe out every 2 years
- remove dead wood from the inside of the plant before cutting (better view)
- cut away parts affected by diseases such as pear rust (do not throw in the compost!)
Shape cutting is tolerated unconditionally
The creeping juniper easily tolerates a regular topiary, for example for the purpose of growing a bonsai. It is highly recommended and popular for bonsai design. Its growth rate is extremely slow at 3 to 7 cm per year. So he doesn't get out of shape so quickly.
Wear protection - prick the needles
Carelessly you should not cut a creeping juniper. The numerous needles, which sit close together, sting and can cause unpleasant skin injuries. Sensitive people can even have allergic reactions due to the toxins they contain. It is therefore better to wear gloves and long clothing when cutting!
tips
The twigs covered with berries can be cut off and used as a decoration in a vase or as part of a flower arrangement. The berries are edible and, in addition to seasoning game dishes, are suitable for preparing tea, for example.