Juniper groundcover: Is it a good fit for Florida tropical landscapes?

Juniper groundcover
Juniper groundcover surrounds a pygmy palm at this Sarasota residence.

Juniper groundcover growing around tall coconut palms and tropical hibiscus is not unlike seeing someone wear a wool coat on a sunny beach. For many, it’s way too heavy of a look and seems just plain unnatural.

That’s why designers working at ArtisTree Landscape rarely get requests for juniper groundcover, even though it’s considered to be one of Florida’s bullet-proof evergreens. Instead, a majority of newcomers who relocate to our state prefer to go all-out tropical, not recreate their northernesque landscapes. So the first thing they almost always ask us to do is rip out their juniper.

Now just to be clear, we have incorporated this groundcover into landscapes where homeowners insist on creating a more traditional northern vibe. Plus, you’ll see it used more often on commercial or industrial sites since it’s so low-maintenance. So why it all boils down to personal preference, there’s more you should know.

Juniper groundcover
Juniper groundcover fills an entrance area at Watercrest, a Venice, FL, HOA community.

Juniper groundcover: Weeds, bloomless and prickly

Like we said, juniper groundcover is hardy. It requires minimal care plus it’s drought tolerant and can withstand high temps. But keep in mind it requires at least a half day of sun and is susceptible to various insect pests if left untreated. You also have to watch for weed penetration, which is common in less dense varieties. Once weeds are in the bed, they’re very difficult to pull out without harming the plant.

Additionally, many varieties get as tall as a low shrub and offer no blooms. And because they’re prickly, you’ll need gloves to prune. Removing them? Oh, that’s fun. Extremely labor-intensive, believe us.

juniper
Once weeds start growing, they’re very difficult to pull out without harming the plant.

Tropical alternatives to juniper groundcover.

Where do we begin? Tropical-themed choices abound, including Emerald Blanket Carissa, Perennial Peanut, Gold Sedum, Baby Sunrose, Coral Creeper and many others. Contact ArtisTree Landscape and let’s discuss what you have in mind.

Juniper groundcover
Baby Sunrose is one of SW Florida’s most durable and striking succulent groundcovers.
Coral Creeper
Coral Creeper is a fast-growing perennial groundcover that blooms off and on all year long.

Call ArtisTree Landscape 941.488.8897

ArtisTree HOA landscape maintenance

To get your landscape renovation started now, browse ArtisTree’s portfolio and then call Jenni Lassen at 941.488.8897, ext. 312, to meet with one of our award-winning designers. We proudly serve Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties.

ArtisTree also provides complete landscape maintenance services for HOA communities throughout Southwest Florida. Contact Michael Casper at 941.488.8897, ext. 321, for your custom proposal.  

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