All Species > Juniperus horizontalis

Blue Chip Juniper

Prostrate conifer used in cascades and mats; tolerant of pruning and shaping.

Seasonal Care Guide

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  • Watering: Water sparingly, only when soil is nearly dry to the touch.
  • Repotting: Prepare tools and soil mix for upcoming repotting season.
  • Pruning: Avoid major pruning; dormant foliage doesn’t recover well.
  • Wiring: Check for wire bite on previously wired branches.
  • Pests Disease: Monitor for scale insects or spider mites overwintering in bark.
  • Winter Protection: Keep out of strong wind/freeze exposure; protect roots from ice.
  • Wound Management: Avoid making cuts in cold conditions.
  • Deadwood Carving: Can be done now if temperatures allow safe handling.
  • Propagation: Not suitable.
  • Development: Observe branch line and growth for early planning.
  • Display: Avoid; tree is visually dormant.

Placement & Seasonal Notes

  • Placement: Full sun
  • Notes: Thrives in open exposure; avoid dense shade.
  • Winter: Hardy; shelter from drying winds.
  • Summer: Provide airflow to avoid fungal issues.

Leaf Traits

  • Persistence: Evergreen
  • Form: Conifer

Watering & Fertilization

  • Watering: Moderate
  • Notes: Avoid overwatering; use well-draining mix.
  • Season: Spring → Autumn
  • Fertilization: Balanced
  • Notes: Use mild fertilizer to avoid excessive shoot growth.

Training Techniques

  • Wiring: Spring or Autumn
  • Notes: Branches set slowly - longer wiring period needed.
  • Pruning: Structural in early spring, maintenance mid-season
  • Notes: Maintain silhouette by pinching tips.
  • Repotting: Every 3-5 years
  • Notes: Use coarse soil to maintain drainage.

Propagation

  • Method: Cuttings or seed
  • Notes: Cuttings take well in summer with bottom heat.

Zone 8b Considerations

Watch for spider mites (Jul-Aug); Prevent rot in wet Nov-Jan