Juniper is a hardy tree that has no problems with frosty temperatures. However, frost damage can occur with potted plants and certain varieties. Pay attention to the correct location and appropriate care measures. Care differs between summer and winter.
Is juniper hardy?
Juniper is generally hardy, but frost damage can occur in container plants and certain varieties. Pay attention to the right location, appropriate care and, if necessary, winter protection for sensitive varieties such as Juniperus communis 'Hibernica' or Juniperus scopulorum 'Blue Arrow'.
Varieties and notes
Almost all varieties are hardy and do not require protection. Pay attention to the special requirements of the respective variety so that the trees are not damaged in winter.
Good to know:
- Juniperus communis 'Hibernica': wrap multi-stemmed columns with wire in winter
- Juniperus scopulorum 'Blue Arrow': Protect young plants in winter
- Juniperus chinensis 'Old Gold': compact roots can freeze quickly in winter
Location
The trees prefer a sunny location on dry ground. A loose structure ensures permeability so that water does not accumulate. Waterlogging often becomes a problem and results in the death of shoots and leaves if potted plants are left uncovered in winter or if trees grow outdoors on heavy soil. To prevent this from happening, the soil should be loosened with sand. Juniper likes a slightly acidic environment, but can also tolerate small amounts of lime.
The suitable substrate:
- Mixture of three parts potting soil (€9.00 on Amazon), one part sand and some clay granules
- Bonsai mix for conifers
- loamy soil loosened with sand
Watering in summer
Water potted plants thoroughly so that the substrate can soak up water. By the time the next watering is due, the substrate can dry out almost completely. The juniper tolerates occasional dryness as long as it does not occur too often.
potted plants in winter
During the cold season, place the pot in a protected place where snow or rain does not collect in the pot. A covered house entrance or a pavilion in the garden is ideal.
To avoid winter damage, controlled watering is important. The plants also need to be watered in winter so that the evergreen plants can maintain their metabolism. Give the shrubs in containers and outdoors water on frost-free days. Keep the substrate moderately moist so that it does not dry out for a long time.
Protection in harsh winter months:
- Wrap the bucket in foil
- Distribute brushwood on the substrate
- Place the vessel on a wooden block
