Ground cover species and varieties
Within the genus Juniperus there are some species that develop flat shoots and reach low heights. These shrubs are ideal as ground cover. A popular species is the creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis), which grows between 20 and 50 centimeters high. With a width of 120 to 150 centimeters, the wood covers barren soils in sunny locations. Its branches grow slightly offset from one another, so that dense carpets of needles are created.
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Good ground cover varieties:
- Juniperus communis 'Repanda'
- Juniperus communis 'Hornibrookii'
- Juniperus communis 'Green Carpet'
Location requirements
Like all juniper species, the ground cover also prefer a location in full sun where they can develop freely. The ideal soil offers poor conditions and a loose structure. A high proportion of sand ensures optimal permeability, because the cypress family cannot tolerate waterlogging. The substrate may be calcareous. The proximity to other trees and shrubs should be avoided, as Juniperus cannot tolerate root pressure.
Plant spacing
So that the wood develops a dense carpet, you should keep a distance of 50 to 80 centimeters, depending on the variety. There is space for about two to four plants on one square meter. The juniper develops deeply reaching roots with which the wood draws nutrients and water from the lower soil layers. In this way, the trees can cope with prolonged drought and more densely planted specimens do not hinder their growth.
use
Ground-covering species are suitable for greening large areas or Embankments. Dry and sunny terrace slopes facing south provide optimal growth conditions. You can also plant the low shrubs on a stone wall so that the creeping shoots hang loosely over the stones.
You can create exotic Japanese gardens with low-growing Juniperus species. The ground cover is only suitable as underplanting if the woody plantings offer light conditions. Creeping junipers can also be found in Window boxes(€ 7.99 at Amazon *) or tubs can be planted.