Saybrook Gold Juniper

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This juniper thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. While it can handle a bit of afternoon shade, the golden foliage will lose its brilliant "glow" and turn a duller green without enough sun.
• Soil: It prefers well drained soil and won't tolerate "wet feet" or standing water. If you have heavy clay, mix in some organic compost or plant it on a slight mound to improve drainage and keep the roots from suffocating.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water your Saybrook Gold once or twice a week to help the root system reach deep into the soil. Once established, this juniper is remarkably drought tolerant and can handle dry spells without much fuss. If the plant goes too long without water during extreme heat, you may see the needle tips turn brown or notice a slower growth rate.

Pruning Tips

This shrub blooms on old wood, though its flowers are insignificant compared to its feathery foliage. You should prune in early spring before new growth begins, focusing on thinning out any dead interior branches to improve airflow. Think of it like a light haircut; avoid cutting back into the "dead zone" where there are no green needles, as junipers rarely sprout new growth from old, bare wood.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring to fuel the bright yellow new growth. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer or fall. Doing so encourages tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost, leaving the plant vulnerable to winter tip burn.