The Emerald Spreader Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis ‘Emerald Spreader’) is a popular low-growing evergreen shrub, often used as a groundcover. Its dense, spreading mat of vibrant foliage provides year-round interest and is a low-maintenance solution for various garden designs.
Characteristics of Emerald Spreader Juniper
The Emerald Spreader Juniper typically reaches 0.5 to 0.75 feet (6 to 9 inches) tall, spreading 5 to 10 feet wide. Its prostrate growth creates a dense, flat carpet of foliage.
Its bright emerald green foliage retains its color throughout the year. The leaves are primarily scale-like, with some awl-like needles, giving it a fine, feathery texture. This juniper is cold-hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9, drought-tolerant, and deer-resistant.
Planting Emerald Spreader Juniper
Emerald Spreader Juniper thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and color. Insufficient sun may lead to spindly growth and less vibrant foliage.
It adapts to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay, but good drainage is essential. It prefers dryish, sandy soil and will not tolerate wet conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Dig the planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep. The top of the root ball should be slightly higher than the surrounding soil surface. Backfill the hole, gently tamping the soil to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly. For multiple plants, space them according to their mature spread for adequate air circulation and growth.
Caring for Emerald Spreader Juniper
During its first growing season, deep watering is important to establish a robust root system. Once established, this juniper becomes drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation, often thriving on natural rainfall. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Emerald Spreader Juniper generally does not require extensive fertilization. A light application of a slow-release granular fertilizer for trees and shrubs can be applied in early spring before new growth. Avoid fertilizing late in the growing season, as this can stimulate tender new growth vulnerable to cold weather. This juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to blights in unusually wet conditions and occasional spider mites. Ensuring proper air circulation by avoiding overly dense planting helps mitigate problems.
Pruning Emerald Spreader Juniper
Pruning Emerald Spreader Juniper maintains its shape, controls size, and removes dead or damaged branches. This low-maintenance shrub looks best when allowed to retain its natural, spreading form. Light shearing can encourage denser growth and a fuller appearance.
The optimal time for pruning is early spring before new growth. A second light pruning can be performed after flowering in summer if additional shaping is needed. Only prune young shoots and avoid cutting into old, leafless wood, as junipers do not regrow from these areas. Removing less than a quarter of the foliage at a time prevents stress. Regular, light pruning also helps prevent disease or insect infestations by improving air circulation.
Landscape Applications
Emerald Spreader Juniper offers versatility in landscape design due to its low-growing, spreading habit and evergreen foliage. Its dense growth makes it an excellent groundcover, effectively suppressing weeds and reducing the need for mowing. It is also useful for erosion control on slopes, where its extensive root system helps stabilize the soil.
The plant’s prostrate form allows it to drape over retaining walls and gracefully integrate with rock outcroppings, making it a fitting choice for rock gardens or xeriscape designs. It serves well as a border plant, defining edges along pathways or garden beds, and can be used in mass plantings to create large areas of uniform texture and color. Its year-round emerald green color provides consistent visual interest for various garden styles, including foundation plantings.