Juniper is a hardy woody plant that has no problem with freezing temperatures. However, frost damage can occur in potted plants and certain varieties. Pay attention to the right location and suitable care measures. Care differs between summer and winter.
Planted juniper is very hardy
Varieties and Notes
Almost all varieties are hardy and do not require shelter. Pay attention to the special requirements of the respective variety so that the trees are not damaged in winter.
Good to know:
- Juniperus communis 'Hibernica': wrap multi-stemmed columns with wire in winter
- Juniperus scopulorum 'Blue Arrow': protect young plants in winter
- Juniperus chinensis 'Old Gold': compact roots can freeze quickly in winter
location
The trees prefer a sunny location on dry soil. A loose structure ensures permeability to prevent water from pooling. Waterlogging often becomes a problem and results in the death of shoots and leaves if potted plants are left uncovered in winter or shrubs grow outdoors on heavy soil. To prevent this from happening, the soil should be loosened with sand. Juniper likes a slightly acidic environment, but also tolerates small amounts of lime.
The suitable substrate:
- Mixture of three parts potting soil, one part sand and some clay granules
- Bonsai mix for conifers
- clay soils loosened with sand
watering in summer
Water potted plants deeply, allowing the substrate to soak up water. Until the next watering is due, the substrate can dry out almost completely. The juniper tolerates occasional dry bulbs if this does not occur too often.
Potted plants in winter
In the cold season, place the pot in a sheltered place where no snow or rain collects in the bucket. A covered entrance or a pavilion in the garden is ideal.
Controlled watering is important to avoid winter damage. The plants also have to be watered in winter so that the evergreen plants can maintain their metabolism. Water the shrubs indoors and outdoors on frost-free days. Keep the substrate moderately moist so that it does not dry out for a long time.
Protection in severe winter months:
- Wrap bucket in foil
- Spread brushwood on the substrate
- Place the jar on a block of wood