Junipers

Juniperus spp.

Easygoing junipers have attractive, needle-like foliage that branches out in a horizontal growth pattern, making them one shrub you'll almost never need to trim.

These are supremely simple-to-grow plants that don't get too tall, do spread wide, and are often used for low-maintenance groundcover plants.

Their silvery or blue-green color fades to more of a soft green as the plants mature, and they play an effective, understudy role in landscaping - often surrounding a focal point such as a showy palm or small flowering tree.

Builders landscape many new homes in Florida with these plants because of their hardy nature and ease of care.

The most common variety - 'Parsonii' - is sometimes called "Parsons Juniper." This shrub can eventually grow about 2-1/2 feet tall. It's foliage is somewhat prickly, making it a good plant under windows to deter burglars.

An even smaller variety that's commonly grown is Blue Pacific - and a look-alike known as Dwarf Shore. These shrubs are softer to the touch than parsonii and stay about a foot tall.

At first glance, you may think this type of plant looks like an "up-North" shrub...but the texture, color and pattern of growth can lend a grassy, beachy look against a backdrop of tropicals.

Plant specs

These plants do best in full to partial sun.

They're cold hardy, thriving anywhere in South Florida, as well as being drought tolerant once established.

The rate of growth is slow for these low-growing, wide-spreading shrubs that only grow a foot or two tall.

These plants are considered deer-resistant (but we make no promises).

Plant care

Plant with a combination of top soil (or organic peat moss) and cow manure added to the hole.

Fertilize 3 times a year - in spring, summer and autumn - with a top-quality granular fertilizer.

No trimming is needed - but if you do, cut branches rather than across needles.

Regular water with time to dry out between waterings is ideal.

If you do nothing else, at least water these shrubs during dry spells to avoid spider mites, which love feasting on too-dry, stressed plants.

Plant spacing

Parsonii should be placed 3 feet apart. Smaller varieties can go in at 2-1/2 feet apart. Come out from the house at least 2 feet.

This plant will work in a container with good light and correct watering.

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Landscape uses for junipers

• groundcover plants
• under low windows
• as a front border for taller bushes
• surrounding the trunk of a palm or small tree
• foundation planting
• lining a fence
• low-growing hedge
• bordering walks or drives
• along a deck, porch or patio
  

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Other shrubs you might like: Schillings (Dwarf Yaupon) Holly, Dwarf Podocarpus

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