Hetz Columnar Juniper

Watering

Water deeply once a week during the first year, letting the top inch of soil dry out in between. Established plants are drought-tolerant, needing water only every two to three weeks during dry weather. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger in a few inches – water if it feels dry.

Sunlight

Hetz Columnar Juniper prefers full to part shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.

Soil Conditions

This adaptable juniper thrives in well-drained soil. Ensure the planting area allows for proper drainage to avoid root rot. The ideal soil pH is between 5.5 and 8, but your juniper can tolerate slight variations.

Fertilizing

In early spring, feed your juniper with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens. Spread it around the base of the plant, reaching out to the drip line (the area under the edge of the foliage). Water well after fertilizing to distribute the nutrients.

Pruning

Prune your Hetz Columnar Juniper in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. This helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant’s foliage in a single season.

When It Arrives

Give your new juniper a good soaking right after planting. Drench the soil thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. This helps settle the root ball and encourage strong root development.

During the First Year

Consistency is key! Water your juniper deeply once a week during its first year. Aim to soak the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. This encourages the roots to grow deep and strong.

After the First Year

Established Hetz Columnar Junipers are drought tolerant. Once your plant is past its first year, you can reduce watering frequency. Check the soil moisture regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply only when the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch.

Extra Tips

Water in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation. Instead of shallow, frequent watering, aim for deep soakings to encourage deep root growth. Observe your plant – wilting leaves are a sign it needs water. A water meter can be a helpful tool to ensure you’re not under or overwatering.

When It Arrives

Hold off on fertilizing your new juniper when it first arrives. The potting soil it came in likely contains enough nutrients to get it established.

During the First Year

During the first year, your focus should be on watering and root development. There’s no need to fertilize as the plant adjusts to its new environment.

After the First Year

From the second year onwards, you can give your Hetz Columnar Juniper a boost with fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring, before new growth appears.

Extra Tips

Follow the application instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the recommended amount. Less is often more – avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the roots. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant, reaching out to the drip line. Water thoroughly after fertilizing to distribute the nutrients throughout the root zone.

Tools You’ll Need

Sharp pruning shears or loppers are all you need for basic pruning. For thicker branches, consider using hand pruners with a bypass blade.

When to Prune

The best time to prune your Hetz Columnar Juniper is in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. This allows for proper healing before the active growing season.

Steps to Prune

First, remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Then, focus on shaping the plant by carefully trimming back overly long branches. Aim to cut just above a healthy outward-facing bud to encourage new growth in the desired direction. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s foliage in a single pruning session.

Post-Pruning Care

After pruning, clean your tools with disinfectant to prevent the spread of disease. Water your juniper deeply to encourage new growth.

Extra Tips

Always prune with clean, sharp tools for clean cuts and to avoid damaging the plant. Step back frequently while pruning to assess the overall shape and ensure you’re maintaining a balanced silhouette. For more extensive shaping or for very tall junipers, consider consulting a professional arborist.

How tall will my Hetz Columnar Juniper grow?

Mature Hetz Columnar Junipers typically reach 10-15 feet tall with a spread of 4-6 feet. They grow at a moderate pace, adding about 1-2 feet per year.

How much sun does a Hetz Columnar Juniper need?

Hetz Columnar Junipers prefer full to part shade. They thrive with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily but can tolerate some afternoon shade as well.

Is the Hetz Columnar Juniper deer resistant?

Yes! This is a great choice for areas with deer problems. Deer find the foliage of Hetz Columnar Junipers unpalatable and will typically leave them alone.

How often should I water my Hetz Columnar Juniper?

During the first year, water your juniper deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Established Hetz Columnar Junipers are drought tolerant and only need watering every 2-3 weeks during dry spells.

Do I need to fertilize my Hetz Columnar Juniper?

While not strictly necessary, fertilizing can give your juniper a boost and help it reach its full potential. Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring, before new growth appears.

Is the Hetz Columnar Juniper fast growing?

No, Hetz Columnar Junipers have a moderate growth rate, typically adding 1-2 feet per year. This makes them a good choice for those who don’t want a hedge that will quickly outgrow its space.

Is the Hetz Columnar Juniper easy to care for?

Yes! Hetz Columnar Junipers are known for being low-maintenance and adaptable. They require minimal pruning, are drought tolerant once established, and thrive in a variety of soil conditions.