Japanese garden juniper (Juniperus procumbens)

Also known as: Bonin islands juniper

Japanese garden juniper (*Juniperus procumbens*) is a low-growing, evergreen ground cover that typically reaches heights of 20 to 30 cm and can spread extensively, covering areas up to 4.5 meters wide. The blue-green foliage may turn purplish in winter, and pruning is generally unnecessary. This juniper prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It does best in well-drained soil and requires moderate watering, with increased attention during hot summer months.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Japanese garden juniper

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

15 cm to 46 cm

Spread

3 m to 4.5 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

N/A (Do not produce typical flowers)

Flower Color

N/A (Do not produce typical flowers)

Images of Japanese garden juniper

Quickly Identify Japanese garden juniper

Low stature, under 2 feet (60 cm) tall, but wide-reaching branches up to 15 feet (4.5 meters).

Unique flower structures resembling cones, small in size (0.2 inches/5 mm) with pale colors.

Waxy, blackish berries, 0.3 inches (7-10 mm) wide, elusive on cultivated specimens.

Spiny, needle-like leaves, blue-green to gray-green, forming whorls of three, year-round color.

Thin, brownish-gray stems, 0.1 to 0.3 inches (2-7 mm) in thickness, rough surface with scales.

Scientific Classification of Japanese garden juniper

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Conifers

Order

Pines and allies

Family

Cypress

Genus

Junipers

Species

Japanese garden juniper

Planting and Growing of Japanese garden juniper

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Japanese garden juniper?

Juniperus procumbens prefers its soil to be slightly dry between waterings. Ensure water soaks through the soil evenly but does not puddle. About 250 ml per session should suffice, but adjust based on weather conditions.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Japanese garden juniper?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Juniperus procumbens thrives in full to partial sunlight, translating to a well-round, lush growth. Ideal light encourages optimal metabolic and photosynthesis processes, fortifying the plant's natural defenses.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Japanese garden juniper?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Juniperus procumbens thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This temperature range provides a balanced environment that promotes healthy growth and development of the plant. Maintaining this ideal range ensures that the plant's physiological processes function efficiently.

What Soil is Best for Japanese garden juniper?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Juniperus procumbens thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot and allows the roots to access oxygen effectively. Proper drainage ensures healthy root growth, which is vital for the plant's overall health. The plant benefits from soil that is moderately fertile. Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are crucial for its growth, foliage density, and resilience to pests and diseases. While Juniperus procumbens prefers well-drained soil, a certain level of moisture retention is beneficial. This helps during dry spells, ensuring that the plant remains hydrated without being waterlogged. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Japanese garden juniper?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Juniperus procumbens, applying fertilizer should be done cautiously to avoid nutrient burn. Use a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer at a half-strength rate, especially if liquid. When using slow-release granules, a small handful per square meter around the root zone suffices. Always water thoroughly after application to prevent the concentration of nutrients in one area.

How to Prune Japanese garden juniper?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

When pruning Juniperus procumbens, start by sterilizing your pruning shears to prevent disease. Always trim above a bud at a 45-degree angle to encourage new growth. Remove dead or overgrown branches to improve air circulation and let light penetrate the inner parts of the plant. To maintain a desired shape or size, trim junipers regularly. Focus on pruning excess growth that disrupts the plant's natural form. Use your shears to follow the natural curve of the branches, lightly trimming back to maintain an even silhouette and encourage a dense, compact appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Japanese garden juniper plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Collect seeds from mature Juniperus procumbens cones when they change from a green to a dark color. Clean the seeds and allow them to dry in a cool place for a few days.

Select sturdy, healthy stems that are not flowering. Cut these stems at a length of 10-15 cm and remove the lower foliage. Dip the end in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil.

For layering propagation, select a low, flexible branch and bend it to the ground. Make a small incision on the underside and cover it with soil, securing it with a peg to encourage root growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Japanese garden juniper plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

You should consider repotting Juniperus procumbens when its growth seems stunted or roots are visibly growing out of the pot's drainage holes. These are clear signs that the plant has outgrown its current home and needs more space and fresh nutrients to thrive.

Select a pot that's one size larger than the current one, with plenty of drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A proper pot size prevents root rot, allows the plant to grow comfortably, and improves aeration around the root system.

For Juniperus procumbens, a well-draining loamy soil is ideal. This mix ensures adequate moisture retention while allowing excess water to escape, imitating the plant's natural environment and reducing the risk of root rot.

Toxicity of Japanese garden juniper

Is Japanese garden juniper toxic to cat?

The Japanese garden juniper presents a mild toxic hazard to felines. Cats may face poisoning risks chiefly if they ingest a substantial quantity of its seeds. Contact with Japanese garden juniper can lead to physical distress, which may appear as illness or discomfort, prompting cat owners to remain alert. If poisoning is suspected, urgent care at a veterinary facility is essential. It is vital to keep a close watch on cats when they are near Japanese garden juniper to avert potential consumption and protect their well-being.

Is Japanese garden juniper toxic to dog?

Japanese garden juniper presents a mild toxicity risk for dogs. Although the plant itself is not considered highly toxic, the ingestion of its seeds in significant quantities can result in poisoning. Dogs may be drawn to these seeds and consume them out of curiosity or boredom. Symptoms of poisoning from Japanese garden juniper can differ but may include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting and diarrhea, with more severe reactions occurring based on the quantity ingested. It is vital for dog owners to closely supervise their pets and prevent them from accessing the seeds of Japanese garden juniper. If a dog is suspected of having consumed this plant and is showing signs of poisoning, prompt veterinary attention is essential to effectively manage symptoms and safeguard the animal's health.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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