Juniperus communis 'Alpine Carpet'

• Pollinators: The flowers are generally insignificant, but the small, berry-like cones attract birds and other wildlife.
• Wildlife: The dense foliage provides shelter for small animals and birds. Deer-resistant, making it ideal for areas with wildlife.

• Season: Evergreen, year-round interest
• Flowering Season: Spring

USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-6

Groundcover: Forms a dense, weed-suppressing mat across wide areas.

Erosion Control: Ideal for slopes, banks, and hillsides thanks to its spreading root system.

Rock Gardens: Naturally suited to alpine-style plantings with rocky, sandy soils.

Dry Gardens / Xeriscaping: Drought-tolerant once established and thrives in poor soil.

Foundation Plantings: Perfect for the front of borders or around buildings where low profile is desired.

Coastal or Wind-Exposed Areas: Highly wind-resistant and tolerant of salt spray in colder regions.

• Color: Fine, needle-like leaves that are blue-green throughout the year.
• Shape: The leaves are short, sharp, and scale-like, densely packed along the branches.
• Size: The foliage forms a dense, carpet-like cover, with each needle measuring about 0.5 inches long.

• Color: Inconspicuous yellow-green flowers in spring.
• Bloom Time: Small, unremarkable flowers appear in spring but are typically not the main ornamental feature of the plant.
• Size of Blooms: The flowers are tiny and non-showy, but they give way to small, berry-like cones.

• Best Time to Plant: Plant in early spring or fall to allow the plant to establish itself before extreme temperatures.

Planting Instructions:

• Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soils. Prefers sandy or rocky soils but adapts to most soil types as long as drainage is good.
• Spacing: Space plants 4-6 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit.
• Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.

• Pruning Needs: Minimal pruning is required. Light pruning can be done to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune in late winter or early spring if needed.
• Winter Care: No special winter care is required. It is extremely hardy and can withstand harsh winter conditions in colder zones.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
• Drought Tolerance: Highly drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for dry, rocky, or sandy soils.

• Preferred Light: Full sun for optimal growth and foliage color. Can tolerate some light shade but performs best in bright, sunny locations.

While not a plant harvested for food or flowers, Juniperus ‘Alpine Carpet’ has ornamental and functional uses in design and crafts.

• When to Fertilize: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring for best results. Fertilizing is generally not necessary if the plant is growing in suitable soil conditions.
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a general-purpose fertilizer or one formulated for evergreens.

• Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots, especially during the first growing season.
• Pests: Generally pest-free, though spider mites or juniper scale may occasionally affect it. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
• Disease: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases such as root rot. Avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry.

Juniperus communis 'Alpine Carpet' is wind-pollinated, with male and female cones produced on separate plants. However, this plant's primary ornamental value comes from its foliage and spreading habit rather than its flowers or cones.

Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) – Adds height, fragrance, and cool-toned flower spikes.

Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ – Deep purple flower spikes contrast beautifully with its silvery foliage.

Nepeta (Catmint) – Mounded habit and lavender-blue blooms blend seamlessly with the juniper’s texture.

Buxus ‘Green Velvet’ – Offers dark green contrast and formality in borders.

Artemisia ‘Silver Mound’ – A great silver-on-silver pairing for dry gardens.

Rosa rugosa (Wild Rose) – Hardy and tolerant of poor soils; its rose hips and flowers bring seasonal color.

Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ – Intensifies the cool color palette and mirrors the texture.

Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’ – Vertical interest contrasts with the horizontal sprawl of Alpine Carpet.