red cedar

Red cedar plants (Juniperus virginiana 'Hillspire') should be watered approximately once a week in the summer and once every 2 weeks in the winter. During the summertime, water your red cedar deeply so that the soil is evenly moist, but not overly saturated. In the winter, water less and only enough to keep the soil from drying out completely. When the weather is hot and dry, you may need to water more frequently. Make sure to check the soil near the roots of the plant for dryness before deciding to water.

Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana 'Hillspire') will thrive when it is planted in a location that receives full sun. Ideal conditions are those where the tree receives direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours each day. During summer months, it should be situated in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade to protect the foliage from burning. During the winter, it should be situated in an area that receives direct sun all day. Red Cedar can also tolerate some light shade, especially if it is growing in an area with intense summer sun.

Red cedar (Juniperus virginiana 'Hillspire') should be pruned in late winter, early spring. Pruning should involve removing dead, diseased, and broken branches, and any that cross over or rub against each other. Sometimes it is also necessary to prune back errant or fast-growing shoots. Shaping when the plant is young creates a strong structure and encourages branching. Prune out no more than 1-third of foliage each year to maintain the plant’s shape, health, and vigor. Young red cedars should also be pruned back to ensure they maintain a strong structure that can support heavy snowfall.