Folio № 18 of 36 · in the garden since 2024
Creeping Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Chip'
Prostrate conifer used in cascades and mats; tolerant of pruning and shaping.
The year, as this species lives it
Thirteen phases. Touch any arc — the wheel remembers what each season asks.
Early Fall · Sep 1 – Sep 30 · happening now
- Water less frequently as evapotranspiration slows.
- Final feedings with potassium-rich fertilizer to harden growth.
- Not advised.
- Begin fall thinning and silhouette corrections.
- Ideal time for wiring lignified branches—growth has slowed.
- Pinch strong terminals; direct energy to weaker zones.
- Clean up fallen debris to reduce disease.
- Begin prepping overwintering space.
- Remove shade screens.
- Clean and seal any late-season pruning.
- Excellent time—sap is dropping, wood is drier.
- Collect seed or strike late cuttings if applicable.
- Begin setting structure for next season.
- Good time to show mature trees with strong late-season silhouette.
click another arc to travel the year →
The care sheet
The constants — what stays true in every season.
Full sun
Thrives in open exposure; avoid dense shade.
Moderate
Avoid overwatering; use well-draining mix.
Balanced
Use mild fertilizer to avoid excessive shoot growth.
Structural in early spring, maintenance mid-season
Maintain silhouette by pinching tips.
Spring or Autumn
Branches set slowly - longer wiring period needed.
Every 3-5 years
Use coarse soil to maintain drainage.
Cuttings or seed
Cuttings take well in summer with bottom heat.
Hardy; shelter from drying winds.
Provide airflow to avoid fungal issues.
On the bench · 1
Every Creeping Juniper in the garden, oldest hands first.
