Juniperus horizontalis ‘Blue Chip’

• Wildlife: Creeping juniper can provide shelter for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife, especially in more naturalized landscapes. It can also be used as ground cover in areas where deer may roam, as it is deer-resistant.
• Pollinators: While junipers do produce inconspicuous flowers, they are not known to attract many pollinators, as the flowers are non-showy.

• Seasonality: As an evergreen, ‘Blue Chip’ provides year-round interest with its vibrant foliage that changes color with the seasons.
• Blooming Season: Juniperus horizontalis is primarily grown for its foliage and form; the flowers are insignificant and not a key feature of the plant.
• Winter Interest: The silvery-blue foliage develops hints of purple or bronze during colder months, adding seasonal interest.

• Groundcover: Dense, low mat-forming growth smothers weeds and fills large open spaces.
  
• Erosion Control: Excellent for slopes, embankments, or rocky hillsides thanks to its spreading habit and deep roots.
  
• Rock Gardens: Native to rugged environments, it blends well in alpine and xeric plantings.
  
• Coastal or Urban Landscapes: Tolerates salt, wind, and pollution.
  
• Foundation Plantings & Borders: Neat form makes it ideal for edging walkways or beds.
  
• Year-Round Color: Offers evergreen structure and cool-toned contrast in all seasons.
  
  

• The foliage of ‘Blue Chip’ is made up of fine, needle-like leaves that are soft to the touch.
• The leaves are a striking silvery-blue throughout the growing season, providing a cool-toned contrast in garden beds.
• During the winter, the foliage may take on a purplish hue, enhancing its ornamental value.

• Plant ‘Blue Chip’ juniper in spring or fall, giving it enough time to establish before extreme heat or cold.
• Choose well-drained soil, as this plant does not tolerate soggy conditions. It thrives in sandy or rocky soils and is perfect for slopes or areas prone to erosion.
• Space plants 3 to 5 feet apart for effective ground cover or erosion control.

Minimal pruning is required. If needed, prune lightly in early spring to maintain shape or remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as junipers do not regenerate well from old wood.

• Once established, ‘Blue Chip’ is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish the root system, but after that, water sparingly.
• Avoid overwatering, as junipers are susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.

• Full sun is ideal for ‘Blue Chip’ juniper to maintain its compact form and bright foliage.
• It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and color. While it can tolerate partial shade, the foliage color may not be as vibrant.

Juniper branches can be cut and used in wreaths or decorative arrangements for their ornamental, bluish foliage.

Junipers are not heavy feeders. A light application of slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient to maintain health and vibrant foliage. Alternatively, compost can be applied around the base in spring to improve soil health.

• Pests & Diseases: ‘Blue Chip’ is generally resistant to pests and diseases, though it may be susceptible to juniper blight, especially in overly moist conditions. Avoid watering from above, as wet foliage can lead to fungal issues.
• Deer Resistance: This variety is highly deer-resistant, making it ideal for areas where deer browsing is common.
• Erosion Control: Its dense, spreading growth habit makes it an excellent choice for preventing soil erosion on slopes, hillsides, or rocky terrains.
• Cold & Heat Tolerance: Highly adaptable to both cold and heat, ‘Blue Chip’ performs well in a variety of climates and soil conditions.

Junipers are wind-pollinated, and ‘Blue Chip’ does not produce notable flowers for pollinator attraction.

Lavandula (Lavender) – Contrasts beautifully with its silver-blue foliage and adds fragrance.

Salvia nemorosa – Purple blooms pop against the blue background and attract pollinators.

Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ – Bright yellow daisy-like flowers lighten the composition.

Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ – Intensifies the cool palette with icy blue tones.

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ – Adds soft movement and bronze color contrast in late summer.

Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’ – Compact and colorful with pink flowers.

Berberis thunbergii ‘Concorde’ – Deep burgundy foliage offers dramatic contrast.

Buxus (Boxwood) – Adds structure and formality to beds with a clean evergreen finish.