Juniper is a popular hedge plant that proves to be easy to care for. Young plants require more attention than well-established specimens. But even with vigorously developed magnificent specimens, you should consider the requirements so that the wood remains shapely.
Young junipers need more care
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The water requirement differs depending on the age of the plant. Freshly planted shrubs require more water during the growth phase than mature shrubs. Water young plants regularly and thoroughly in the first year. The top layer of substrate is allowed to dry between waterings.
If the shrubs have developed a branched root system, the water requirement is reduced. With their deep-reaching roots, the plants can draw moisture from the lower soil layers, enabling them to survive long periods of drought. If it is extremely dry, you should occasionally use a watering can.
The plants tolerate temporary dry bulbs without any problems. If the roots dry out more frequently over a longer period of time, drought stress occurs. Shoots and leaves die off and the plant becomes susceptible to infestation by pathogens, pests and fungi.
Fertilize
Juniper grows on sandy and poor soils. The nutrient requirement is low, so that regular fertilization is superfluous. If you want to speed up growth, fertilizing with compost is recommended. Spread this around the trunk and lightly work the material into the soil. Compost is applied in spring before sprouting.
Alternatively, you can supply the plant with juniper fertilizer from specialist shops. This special fertilizer is used on juniper plants that are cultivated as bonsai.
To cut
Juniper does not require regular pruning. Annual pruning promotes new growth and ensures that the shrub grows compactly and develops dense branches. You should already form young plants and only remove green branches.
The ideal time for pruning is before they sprout in spring. Hedges are cut in a trapezoidal shape so that the lower areas get enough light. Round off the edges. This further increases the incidence of light. There are special templates that make cutting easier.
How to cut correctly:
- remove dead branches first
- then make a shape cut
- work from top to bottom
- Set the scissors in the branch forks
- do not leave stumps as they are prone to disease