Tolleson’s Weeping Juniper Not Growing in Phoenix: Fertilize and Amend Soil

The Issue

8 years, no growth, but healthy. Full sun, drip irrigation. Planted in ground (not pot, despite photo appearance).

Diagnosis: Nutrient Depletion

Even in ground, desert soils leach nutrients fast. No fertilization in 8 years = starvation. Growth is naturally moderate, but zero growth = deficiency.

Fix Plan

1. Amend soil: Work in well-composted manure around drip line.
2. Fertilize: Balanced 12-12-12 (or similar) in spring.
3. Repeat annually: Spring feed + manure top-dress.

Why It Looked Potted

Brick border near house mimicked a planter. But since it’s in ground, roots have room—they just need food.

Expectations

• Moderate growth (6–12 inches/year) after feeding.
• Don’t expect “quick and lush”—it’s a juniper.
• Monitor for spider mites (common in hot, dry).

Feed it. It’s hungry, not broken.