Junipers
by Dr. Robert Black, Consumer Horticultural Specialist

Homeowners usually desire ornamental plants adapted to a wide variety of environmental conditions, requiring little maintenance and having few pest problems. If this is the type of plant you want then consider junipers.

A number of Juniperus species are currently grown by nursery growers and homeowners, however, those commonly seen represent only a few of many varieties. The genus Juniperus contains aboutforty species and many varieties named from these species. Junipers range in size from the very dwarf types, four to six inches tall, which can be used as ground covers, to large trees like our Southern Red Cedar, which is really a juniper. This tremendous size range and almost never-ending array of growth forms make junipers outstanding specimens for use in landscaping. Their versatility and adaptability to a wide range of soils and climates, combined with their relatively easy maintenance make the junipers outstanding ornamentals. They certainly deserve more recognition than they have received in the past.

Junipers have excellent tolerance to salt spray and salty soils. Shore juniper has been used extensively for seaside plantings but other varieties could also be used. They grow from Alaska to the southwest, tolerating extremes in temperature. There should be no location in Florida where these plants couldn't be grown. Also, Junipers respond well to fertilization so growth rate can be sped up if necessary.

Another advantage to junipers is their excellent drought tolerance. Tolerance to desert-like conditions is very important for plantings in urban situations such as cities, along streets, parking lots, and also around some homes. Junipers require irrigation only under extreme conditions.

Unfortunately, junipers are not trouble free as many people believe. They can be severely damaged by spider mites. The hotter and drier the growing conditions, the greater will be the mite problems. Mites can be controlled however. The second pest problem is a disease called juniper or twig blight. During moist seasons in areas having high humidity, juniper blight can be a real problem. Tips of branches turn brown and eventually the entire branch will die back. If not sprayed the entire plant may die.

One final cultural requirement should be stressed. Junipers are full sun plants. This should be kept in mind when using these plants in the landscape. Plant junipers where they will receive at least full sun for half a day, such as on the east or west side of a building. In heavy shade junipers grow little and are more susceptible to disease.

Check your local nurseries for varieties of junipers. These plants, if used properly, will make an excellent addition to your home grounds.