Junipers are a remarkably resilient group of evergreen shrubs and trees, prized in landscaping for their year-round color and adaptability. Belonging to the genus Juniperus, these conifers are notably drought-tolerant once established and offer a diversity of shapes, making them suitable for nearly any garden application. Before making a purchase, it is important to understand the specific variety that will best suit your space and where to find a healthy specimen.
Selecting the Ideal Juniper for Your Space
Matching a juniper’s mature characteristics to your local climate and landscape needs is essential. Junipers exhibit a wide range of cold tolerance, with many popular varieties thriving across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. Selecting a plant rated for your specific zone ensures it can withstand your region’s average winter temperatures.
Growth habit is another major consideration, as junipers are categorized into three main forms. Upright varieties, such as Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ or J. chinensis ‘Spartan’, grow tall and narrow, making them excellent choices for screens or vertical accents. Spreading junipers, like J. chinensis ‘Blue Point’, are dense shrubs used for foundation plantings or hedges.
Groundcover types, including J. horizontalis ‘Wiltonii’ (Blue Rug) or J. procumbens ‘Nana’, are low-growing spreaders ideal for erosion control on slopes or as lawn substitutes. Always account for the mature height and width of a cultivar. Overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation and disease susceptibility. Nearly all junipers require a location that receives full sun—a minimum of six hours of direct light daily—to maintain dense foliage and overall health.
Comparing Retail Sources for Juniper Trees
The source of your juniper can significantly impact its quality, price, and long-term success. Local independent nurseries often provide the highest quality stock, as their plants are frequently grown in local conditions. Staff typically possess specialized knowledge and can offer tailored advice on specific cultivars and local pest issues. Although the initial cost is generally higher, the increased survivability and expert support often justify the investment.
Big-box stores and general garden centers offer convenience and lower prices due to bulk purchasing. However, the quality of the plant stock can be inconsistent, as many plants are shipped from distant locations and may not be locally adapted. Standardized watering and care routines can lead to stressed or unhealthy plants that struggle after transplanting. Staff knowledge may also be limited.
Online specialty nurseries are the best option for accessing rare species or unique cultivars not available locally. These retailers offer a wider selection, shipping plants directly to your door. Drawbacks include potentially high shipping costs, especially for larger specimens, and the inability to physically inspect the plant before arrival. When buying online, choose vendors that offer clear guarantees and use reputable shipping methods to minimize the risk of damage.
Inspecting Juniper Health Before Purchase
A thorough physical inspection of the juniper is necessary before purchase. Begin by examining the foliage for uniform color and density. Avoid specimens with extensive browning tips or noticeable needle drop, which can indicate drought stress or fungal issues.
To check for spruce spider mites, hold a white sheet of paper beneath a branch and gently tap the foliage. Tiny, dark specks crawling across the paper suggest an active infestation. Inspect the main trunk and branches for damage, such as deep cuts or bark abrasions.
Pay close attention to the base of the trunk where it meets the soil line, looking for evidence of a girdling root wrapping tightly around the trunk. For container-grown stock, gently slide the plant out of its pot to check for circling roots. If the roots form a thick, matted layer, the plant is pot-bound and may struggle to establish, requiring root pruning before planting. For Balled and Burlapped (B&B) trees, ensure the soil mass is firm and the burlap is secured tightly, indicating a recently dug and healthy specimen.