Alpine Carpet® Juniper

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-11 Inches

Mature Spread

3-4 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 6

Evergreen groundcovers don’t come any more durable or dependable than Alpine Carpet® juniper. This flat-growing juniper has a wide spread that hugs the ground, making a carpet of fresh-green, fine foliage that is brilliant for highlighting other conifer or broadleaf evergreens. Juniperus communis is a shrub native to the Rocky Mountains and is ideal for adding to a low-maintenance garden design. 

This hard-working shrub is tolerant of extremely cold or humid climates and grows well in USDA gardening zones 3-6 with minimal care after it is established. The subtle fragrance of juniper helps to repel pests such as deer and rabbits and is welcome in sensory garden plans for both texture and scent. Alpine Carpet® grows well as a ground cover under other conifers or broadleaf evergreens, and in a large pot, it makes a lovely specimen for bonsai or modern, minimalist designs. 

Alpine Carpet® Juniper Care

Alpine Carpet® juniper is not fussy about it growing conditions and will tolerate a wide range of soil types. Rocky and dry soils are not a challenge, as juniper requires good drainage year-round and typically does not tolerate wet soil. Water newly planted juniper shrubs regularly to aid in the establishment of the root system. Make sure to weed well around the base until the branches spread out over the surrounding soil. Supplemental fertilizing is rarely necessary for juniper shrubs. They thrive in lean soils and develop leggy growth when over-fertilized. 

Prune only to remove any winter-damaged growth or to lightly control the shape of the plant. Heavy shearing is not necessary and will change the natural creeping habit. 

Container-grown juniper will require consistent watering and a seasonal application of a balanced, granular fertilizer. Water the planter when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry to the touch. Junipers growing in pots may be more likely to suffer from extremely cold temperatures and should be moved (if possible) to a sheltered location, out of the path of harsh winds or storms, but where they can receive regular moisture. 

Alpine Carpet® Juniper Spacing

Although Alpine Carpet® juniper can spread 3-4 feet, it grows slowly. Plant multiple shrubs as a ground cover, spacing each 30-36 inches from the center of the next plant. While young, junipers require regular weeding to prevent perennial and annual weeds from taking hold. Annual mulching with finely shredded arborist chips or other organic material can aid in weed suppression and reduce the need for supplemental watering. 

SKU:

1231013705-pc