The first thing to consider when planting a juniper tree is the area in which you'll plant it. The ideal area should receive direct sunlight for most of the day, as juniper trees don't do well when planted in the shade. Be sure to also place it in soil that can drain freely and not get bogged down with water. Dry climates with little rain are considered very hospitable environments, as the trees often live in rocky or mountainous terrain. It is thought best to mix a lot of gravel or small rocks into any soil you will use to plant a juniper tree in order for its roots to never get too wet.
A juniper tree can live in acidic or alkaline soil, and its mineral content is not considered important. A hole twice as deep as the bottom of a juniper tree's roots should be dug so the the tree will stand firmly in the ground. Compost, such as rotted leaves or mulch, can be added to the bottom of the hole for extra drainage, and then the tree should be lowered in with one person to hold it steady and the other person to fill the hole with the gravel soil mixture.
A few of the juniper tree's roots should be worked into the soil before the hole is filled entirely. When the hole is filled with the soil and gravel mixture, it should be tamped down to steady the juniper tree and to release pockets of air that can introduce harmful bacteria to the roots or provide spaces for water to seep in. If the juniper tree you are planting is big, use your feet to press down on the soil. Otherwise, repeated patting of the dirt around the trunk with your hands is fine. Take care not to stamp on the soil too hard, as that may injure the newly planted roots.
Once the juniper tree is upright and firmly planted, spread mulch around its base, and then water the soil. It is thought best to water the tree about once a week, especially for the first few years, so the roots have a chance to firmly catch hold in the soil. If you are planting juniper trees small enough to be held in containers, follow the instructions as if you were planting a larger tree, but add plant food to the soil, as it may need more nutrients.
