Blue Point Juniper

Every garden needs permanence – structural plants that are always there, without changing too much with the seasons. Evergreens, and especially conifers, provide that stability and allow us to make screens, specimens, foundation planting and backgrounds for other plants. These plants also have their own natural beauty, often through foliage color.

Among these plants, Juniper trees stand out. These tough, reliable evergreens thrive in cold or heat, in almost all soils, and look great all year round. They need no maintenance, unless you want to trim them for extra neatness, and most of all, they add interesting colors through their foliage. There are many different junipers, collected from around the world, both spreading and upright. For a reliable upright form, with excellent blue foliage color and dense growth, look no further than the Blue Point Juniper.

Growing Blue Point Junipers

The Blue Point Juniper has proved its worth for the last 50 years, and it remains the number-one choice, with foliage of a striking silver-blue color all year round. It grows steadily, adding 6 to 12 inches each year, and reaching 10 to 12 feet in just 10 years. Like all conifers it will continue to grow for its whole life, so its ultimate size depends on age. When young it is narrow, and very upright, but over time it will become broader and more substantial, until its width is about two-thirds of its height. Of course, it can easily be trimmed from time to time to keep a narrower profile.

Planting Location

Plant the Blue Point Juniper in a sunny location, where its color and foliage density will develop best. We often plant deciduous trees on lawns, but evergreen plants like this make striking lawn specimens that don’t take up a lot of room, and the blue foliage color is even more dramatic against the lush green of a lawn. It is also excellent around your home, as part of the foundation planting, placed in a corner, or between windows. Don’t plant in front of a window, as its final height will obscure it, but beside a window or doorway it makes a great low-maintenance addition to the varied sizes and colors of plants around your home. Allow room for the final width when planting, and leave about 3 feet clearance for doors, from walls, or beside windows.

Using Blue Point Junipers as a Screen

Another effective use for the Blue Point Juniper is as a screen. Planted in a row, these tough trees will block cold winds and snow in the north just as well as block hot, drying winds in the south. Plant your trees 2 to 3 feet apart for a dense screen, or 4 to 5 feet apart for an avenue that will still reduce wind and give protection, even before the plants eventually join up.

Soil Conditions

This reliable tree grows in any well-drained soil, and once established it is very drought resistant. In hotter states water occasionally through the hot months, but for reliability without needing attention, this plant is hard to beat. It has no significant pest or diseases. For stronger, more rapid growth, apply an evergreen fertilizer in spring.

Trimming

You can trim this plant at almost any time but avoid doing so during the hottest and coldest months. In cold areas, don’t trim in late fall, as new growth may be burned when winter soon arrives. Use sharp tools for trimming, to avoid ragged cuts, which can then brown, detracting from the beauty of your trees.

History and Origins of the Blue Point Juniper

The Blue Point Juniper is a selected form of the Chinese juniper (Juniperus chinensis) which grows naturally in China, Mongolia and Japan. In nature it forms a large tree to 60 feet tall, growing on hillsides and in rocky places. It has been grown in gardens in Western countries since its introduction in 1804, and many different forms have been developed.

The leaves of this tree are of two types. On younger trees they are pointed, and these juvenile leaves give the plant a fuzzy texture. As the tree grows older, more adult leaves develop, which cling flat to the stems, creating smoother growth. The Blue Point Juniper is a selected form of this tree, that was found in the early 1970s at Monrovia Nursery in Visalia, California. It was chosen for its outstanding blue foliage color, and its strong, upright habit. It has proved its value since then and remains a reliable choice for any garden.

Buying Blue Point Junipers at The Tree Center

Our plants are grown from stem pieces taken from correctly named plants. They are not cheap seedling trees and they will grow as exact copies of the original parent plant. Seedling trees are inferior and very variable, and you cannot predict how they will develop, or what color their foliage will be. This well-known plant is a popular choice with out customers, so order now, while our limited stocks remain available.

What are the best companion plants for the Blue Point Juniper?

The Blue Point Juniper’s silver-blue foliage makes it a striking addition to any garden. It pairs well with plants that contrast its color and texture. Consider pairing it with plants that have golden or variegated foliage, such as Golden Euonymus or Variegated Boxwood. Its upright form also contrasts well with low-growing, mounding plants like Creeping Phlox or Daylilies. Since it thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil, choose companion plants with similar needs to ensure all plants thrive.

How can I use the Blue Point Juniper in a rock garden?

The Blue Point Juniper is a fantastic choice for a rock garden. Its upright form and silver-blue foliage provide a striking contrast to the rocks and other plants in the garden. Its ability to grow in any well-drained soil makes it suitable for the often challenging conditions of a rock garden. Plant it as a focal point, or use it to create a backdrop for other rock garden plants. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round interest.

Can the Blue Point Juniper be grown in containers?

Yes, the Blue Point Juniper can be grown in containers, especially when it’s young. Its steady growth rate and manageable size make it suitable for container gardening. However, as it can reach 10 to 12 feet in height, it will eventually outgrow the container and need to be planted in the ground or a larger container. Make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Regular watering is essential, especially in the hot summer months.

What wildlife does the Blue Point Juniper attract?

The Blue Point Juniper, like many evergreen trees, provides valuable shelter for wildlife. Birds may nest in its branches or use it as a refuge from predators and harsh weather. While it doesn’t produce berries like some other junipers, its dense foliage can attract insects, which in turn can attract birds and other insect-eating animals. However, it’s not particularly known for attracting specific wildlife.

What are the potential pests or diseases that could affect the Blue Point Juniper?

The Blue Point Juniper is a hardy and resilient tree that is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, like any plant, it can occasionally be affected by common garden pests such as aphids or spider mites. Diseases such as root rot can occur if the tree is planted in poorly drained soil. Regular inspection and good cultural practices can help prevent most issues. If you notice any signs of pests or disease, consult with a local extension service or professional arborist for advice.

Can the Blue Point Juniper tolerate coastal conditions?

Yes, the Blue Point Juniper is a tough and adaptable tree that can tolerate a range of conditions, including coastal environments. It can withstand the salty air and sandy soils often found in coastal areas. However, it’s always a good idea to provide some protection from strong, salt-laden winds which can cause damage to the foliage. Its drought resistance also makes it a good choice for coastal gardens where soils can be dry.

How can I use the Blue Point Juniper in a privacy screen?

The Blue Point Juniper’s upright habit and steady growth make it an excellent choice for a privacy screen. Plant a row of these trees 2 to 3 feet apart for a dense screen, or 4 to 5 feet apart for a more open, airy screen. Their year-round foliage provides constant privacy, and their height can block unsightly views or create a sense of enclosure in your garden. Remember to consider the mature height and width of the trees when planning your screen.

How does the Blue Point Juniper handle air pollution?

The Blue Point Juniper is a hardy tree that can tolerate a range of environmental conditions, including urban pollution. Its evergreen nature and dense foliage can help filter out pollutants, making it a good choice for urban gardens or landscapes near roads or industrial areas. However, like all plants, it will thrive best in conditions with clean air and good soil.

What care does the Blue Point Juniper need during winter?

The Blue Point Juniper is a hardy tree that can withstand cold winter conditions down to minus 30 degrees. It doesn’t require much special care during winter. However, in areas with heavy snowfall, you may want to gently brush off snow from the branches to prevent them from becoming weighed down and breaking. Also, while it is drought resistant, if your area experiences a dry winter, you may need to water the tree occasionally to prevent it from drying out.

Can the Blue Point Juniper be used in bonsai?

Yes, the Blue Point Juniper can be used in bonsai. Its natural upright habit, steady growth rate, and striking silver-blue foliage make it a popular choice for this art form. However, bonsai is a complex and time-consuming hobby that requires specific knowledge and skills, including pruning, wiring, watering, and repotting techniques. If you’re interested in using Blue Point Juniper for bonsai, it’s recommended to seek advice from a bonsai expert or join a local bonsai club.