code: 5079
Very low growing, creeping ground cover with dense rich green foliage with a slight bluish cast take son a purple plum hue during the winter. Has a soft texture and feel to the foliage.
Hardy to -40°F
Maximum Elevation: 7,000 Feet
Site Selection and Preparation
Like other junipers, “Prince of Wales” prefers growing in areas with full sun exposure. When they are planted in a shady spot, the plants are thinner and more prone to disease or insect problems. Although junipers are tolerant of many soil conditions, including dry and sandy soil, they need well-drained soil and do not tolerate wet feet. Prepare the planting area and improve soil drainage by removing any weeds and tilling the soil to a depth of about 12 to 24 inches to aerate the soil and break up any areas that are compacted. Mix 2 to 3 inches of compost into the soil to improve drainage, if necessary.
Planting Instructions
Dig a hole that is twice as wide and equally deep as the plant’s root ball and sprinkle 2 teaspoons of a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 blend per 1-gallon plant into the hole, mixing it into the soil. After digging the hole, remove “Prince of Wales” from its nursery container and gently separate and loosen the plant’s roots. Place the plant in the hole, with the top of its root ball level with the surrounding ground. Fill the hole halfway with soil, and water thoroughly to remove any air pockets and help the soil settle around the plant’s roots. After the water is absorbed, fill in the hole the rest of the way and water thoroughly. Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch to the planting area to help regulate soil temperatures, retain moisture and discourage weed formation. Gardeners planting multiple “Prince of Wales” junipers should space the plants 3 to 4 feet apart.
Watering
Water a “Prince of Wales” juniper twice a week during the first month after planting to help the plant grow strong roots while it becomes established. After the first month, water the plant regularly during its first growing season, adding about 1 inch of water weekly. This helps encourage the plant to develop a deep root system. After its first season, the plant should not need to be watered since it, like all junipers, is extremely drought tolerant.
Fertilizing and Pruning
Fertilize established plants in early spring and late summer, using a complete fertilizer formula. The University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental science recommends using a 12-4-8 or a 16-4-8 formula applied at a ratio of 1/2 pound for every 100 square feet of planting area. Pruning is not generally necessary; however, gardeners can remove any dead foliage from the underside of plants to improve air circulation.
Information:
Mature Size (generic) : SHRUB (Under 2′)
USDA Hardiness Zone : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Water Needs : Moderate
Light Needs : Full Sun
Growth Rate : Moderate
Mature Height : 5-10 in.
Mature Width : 6-10 ft.
Name : Prince of Wales Juniper
