Hillspire Juniper

Watering

During the first year, water your Juniper thoroughly once a week, allowing water to soak deep into the root zone. As your Juniper matures, it becomes more drought-resistant. Water established trees every two weeks during dry periods, checking the soil for dryness before watering.

Sunlight

Hillspire Junipers prefer full sun for at least 6 hours a day. They tolerate some shade, but full sun promotes optimal growth and vibrant green foliage.

Soil

While adaptable, your Juniper thrives in well-drained soil. Avoid constantly wet areas. The Hillspire Juniper can handle sandy, rocky, or clay soil as long as drainage is sufficient.

Pruning

Although the Hillspire Juniper maintains a naturally neat shape, occasional pruning can refine its size and appearance. Prune in late spring or early summer to encourage healthy new growth.

Fertilizing

For a healthy boost, feed your Juniper a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Follow the package instructions for application amount. Established trees typically only need fertilizing once a year.

Monitoring for Pests and Diseases

Hillspire Junipers are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, regular inspection is recommended. Look for signs of trouble like unusual discoloration or insect activity. Address any issues promptly to maintain your Juniper’s health.

When It Arrives

Give your newly arrived Hillspire Juniper a generous drink. Soak the root ball thoroughly, allowing water to drain freely from the bottom of the pot.

During the First Year

Consistency is key! Water your Juniper deeply once a week during the first year. Aim to soak the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, encouraging roots to grow deep and strong.

After the First Year

Established Hillspire Junipers are drought-tolerant but still appreciate occasional watering. Check the soil moisture weekly, especially during hot, dry periods. Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Avoid creating constantly soggy soil, as this can damage the roots.

When It Arrives

Newly arrived Hillspire Junipers typically don’t need fertilizing. They’ve likely been fed by the grower and are settling into their new environment.

During the First Year

Focus on establishing a strong root system during the first year. You can consider a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, following the product’s instructions for dosage.

After the First Year

Established Hillspire Junipers generally only need fertilizing once a year. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to give your Juniper a boost for healthy growth throughout the season. Remember, less is often more when it comes to fertilizing evergreens.

Best Time to Prune

Prune your Hillspire Juniper in late spring or early summer. This allows for new growth to emerge before the hot summer months. Avoid pruning in fall or winter, as this can make the Juniper susceptible to cold damage.

Tools You’ll Need

Sharp bypass pruners are ideal for removing smaller branches. For thicker branches, consider lopping shears or a pruning saw. Always ensure your tools are clean and sharp to make clean cuts and prevent damage to the plant.

Pruning Steps

Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. For shaping purposes, focus on trimming outward-growing branches to maintain the desired size and form. Remember, the Hillspire Juniper won’t regrow foliage on bare stems, so prune with care. Make clean cuts just above a bud or outward-facing branch for a more natural look.

Ongoing Care

After pruning, monitor your Juniper for proper healing. Prune sparingly and avoid removing more than a third of the overall growth at any one time. For more extensive shaping, consult with a professional arborist.

How fast does the Hillspire Juniper grow?

The Hillspire Juniper has a slow growth rate, typically growing 6-12 inches per year. This manageable pace allows you to enjoy its beauty without it becoming overgrown too quickly.

Can I plant it in full shade?

While they tolerate some shade, they prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and vibrant green foliage. If your planting area receives mostly shade, consider a different shade-loving variety of evergreen.

How tall will my Hillspire Juniper get?

At maturity, they can reach heights of 10-15 feet. When choosing a planting location, consider its mature size and ensure there’s ample space for its future growth.

Do they lose their needles in winter?

No, the Hillspire Juniper is an evergreen, meaning it retains its vibrant green needles throughout the year. This adds a touch of life and color to your landscape even during the coldest winter months.

How much maintenance do they require?

They are a low-maintenance evergreen. Water it deeply once a week during the first year to establish strong roots. After that, established trees are drought-tolerant but will appreciate occasional watering during dry spells. You may also choose to fertilize it once a year in early spring and prune it occasionally to maintain its shape.

Are they deer resistant?

Yes, the Hillspire Juniper is deer resistant. This makes it a great choice for areas where deer are a common problem.

Is the Hillspire Juniper difficult to plant?

Planting is a breeze. Choose a well-drained location with at least 6 hours of sunlight, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, and plant your Juniper at the same soil level it was in the container. Water thoroughly and follow our basic care guide for a healthy, thriving evergreen.