How to Grow a Juniper for Berries
- 1). Turn over the top 12 inches of your planting site and add about two to three inches of organic material, such as compost or peat moss. Junipers tolerate almost all soil conditions; however, it must be well-draining.
- 2). Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball or the Juniper's container. Space common Junipers about 8 to 12 feet apart, depending on the exact cultivator. Other Junipers may be spaced closer or further apart based on their mature spread.
- 3). Set your Junipers in the holes and backfill the soil, packing it lightly down as you go in order to avoid pockets of air.
- 4). Feed each Juniper with 2 tsp. of a fertilizer labeled 10-10-10. Spread it evenly under the canopy of the plant.
- 5). Water the area with about two to three inches of water. Thereafter, Junipers rarely need supplemental waterings except when rain has been scarce.
- 6). Fertilize your Junipers in early spring and late summer with a fertilizer labeled 16-4-8 or 12-4-8. Follow dosing instructions on the label as each fertilizer is different. Water immediately after fertilizing (about two inches).
- 7). Prune sparingly. Only prune dead, damaged or diseased limbs and only the tips of the plants, especially under the plant to help with air circulation. Avoid pruning thick wood.