Planting Juniper on Slopes: Soil Amendment and Terracing for Success

Juniper is reputed tough but not immune to poor soil. Common problem on steep banks: top plants fine, middle "peaked," bottom dying.

Usual reason: soil drier at top, soggy at bottom. Bank soil usually not amended before planting. Junipers need well-drained soil to thrive.

"What?! They're on a steep bank—water runs past them. They ARE well-drained!"

Remember: "well-drained" refers to soil through which water rapidly soaks, not soil over which rain travels.

If planting on bank, add soil conditioner to each spot. If mostly clay, add 1 cubic foot conditioner to 3-foot diameter area. Use three bricks for mini-terrace to hold soil after juniper installed.

With attention to planting area, juniper thrives as excellent bank cover.

Q: Blue Rug junipers on south-facing slope not growing well; west slope better. Want faster coverage.

A: Blue Rug excellent for sunny slope. But most slopes hard, poorly drained, or red clay. For jump start: run soaker hoses under them along slope, water regularly. Apply 'slow release' fertilizer (Osmocote or Nursery Special) to each plant. Pamper this summer—should respond rapidly.