Contents
1. Description
Juniperus Horizontalis Golden Carpet, also known as Creeping Juniper, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the Great Lakes region, and is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add some shimmering gold to their garden. The Golden Carpet is a spreading plant that can reach a height of 6 inches and a width of up to 10 feet. Its needle-like foliage is a bright yellow-green color that turns bronze in winter, adding to its appeal.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
3. Appearance
The Juniperus Horizontalis Golden Carpet has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its needle-like foliage is a bright yellow-green color that shimmers in the sunlight, giving it a golden appearance. The foliage is arranged in flat sprays that grow close to the ground, creating a dense mat that covers the soil. In winter, the foliage turns bronze, adding to the plant’s appeal. The Golden Carpet is a low-growing plant that can reach a height of 6 inches and a width of up to 10 feet.
4. Care Guide
To ensure that the Juniperus Horizontalis Golden Carpet stays healthy and vibrant, it is important to provide it with the proper care. Here are some tips on how to care for this stunning ground cover:- Water: The Golden Carpet is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. However, it is important to water the plant regularly during the first year after planting to help it establish its roots. After that, water only during dry spells.- Fertilization: The Golden Carpet does not require much fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to help promote growth.- Soil: The Golden Carpet prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy, add some sand or gravel to improve drainage.- Sunlight: The Golden Carpet prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.- Hardiness Zones: The Golden Carpet is hardy in zones 4-9.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
The Juniperus Horizontalis Golden Carpet is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. To control spider mites, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap.- Bagworms: These pests can cause defoliation of the plant. To control bagworms, handpick the bags off the plant and destroy them.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and water only when necessary.
6. Habitat
The Juniperus Horizontalis Golden Carpet is native to North America, specifically the Great Lakes region. It is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add some shimmering gold to their garden. The Golden Carpet is a spreading plant that can grow in a variety of habitats, including rocky outcroppings, sand dunes, and open woodlands.
7. Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Juniperus Horizontalis Golden Carpet?A: Water the plant regularly during the first year after planting to help it establish its roots. After that, water only during dry spells.Q: What is the best soil type for the Golden Carpet?A: The Golden Carpet prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy, add some sand or gravel to improve drainage.Q: What pests can affect the Golden Carpet?A: Spider mites and bagworms are common pests that can affect the Golden Carpet.Q: Is the Golden Carpet drought-tolerant?A: Yes, the Golden Carpet is drought-tolerant and does not require much water.
9. Related Plants
– Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip- Juniperus Horizontalis Prince of Wales- Juniperus Horizontalis Wiltonii- Juniperus Horizontalis Andorra Compacta- Juniperus Horizontalis Plumosa
10. References
– “Juniperus horizontalis Golden Carpet.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on August 31, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c375- “Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis).” The Spruce. Accessed on August 31, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/creeping-juniper-profile-3269356- “Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis).” Garden Design Magazine. Accessed on August 31, 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/juniperus/horizontalis.html
