How to Plant a Yard with Western Juniper Trees Around

Adding natural beauty to your yard can be achieved by planting western juniper trees. These trees are native to the North American west and can grow up to 50 feet tall. They have an outstanding tolerance for drought, not to mention they have a long lifespan that can exceed several centuries. Therefore, planting western juniper trees around your yard is a great investment and a beautiful way to add value to your property.

Choose the Right Location

Before starting planting, you need to select the perfect location that suits the western juniper requirements. These trees require dry soil that is well-drained and not too acidic. Additionally, they grow well in full sun or partial shade, and they should not be planted near tall trees due to competition for nutrients and sunlight.

Prepare the Soil

The next step is preparing the soil for planting. Start by removing any grass, weeds, and debris from the planting location. Then, add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility and structure. Western juniper trees prefer slightly alkaline soil; therefore, you may need to add lime to adjust the pH level of your soil.

Select the Right Juniper Variety

Some juniper varieties can grow up to 6 feet tall, while others can reach up to 50 feet in height. Therefore, you need to choose the variety that fits your needs and planting location. Western juniper cultivars like 'Skyrocket' and 'Blue Arrow' are popular due to their columnar growth habit and compact size. However, if you have a massive yard, you may want to consider planting varieties like 'Blaauw' or 'Moonglow,' which have a broader, more shrubby growth habit.

Planting the Trees

Once you have prepared the soil and chosen the right variety, it's time to start planting. Dig a hole that is slightly wider and deeper than the pot's size. You should try to plant the tree at the same level as it was in the pot. After placing the tree in the hole, backfill it with soil, and tamp it down firmly. Water the tree thoroughly to help establish the roots and ensure that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches.

Caring for Western Juniper Trees

After planting, you need to provide proper care for your western juniper trees to help them thrive. These trees require minimal watering but should be watered deeply during the first year after planting. Additionally, you should apply fertilizer once a year in the spring to help improve the tree's growth and health. Finally, western juniper trees respond well to pruning, which helps control their size and shape.

Conclusion

Planting western juniper trees around your yard can add natural beauty and value to your property. However, you need to select the right location, prepare the soil, choose the appropriate variety, and provide the proper care to help them flourish. By following this guide, you can enjoy a fantastic yard with stunning western juniper trees.