Saving a Juniper tree - Ask Extension
I have a large Juniper in my backyard that is flourishing with berries for the birds in the winter time. It grew right next to a large silver maple an...
Knowledgebase
Saving a Juniper tree #907828
Asked June 30, 2025, 11:30 AM EDT
I have a large Juniper in my backyard that is flourishing with berries for the birds in the winter time. It grew right next to a large silver maple and has been tipping over to the point where it's now laying basically on its side. Still alive! I would love to save it and reposition it enough to stand a little more more upright. Not sure how to do that, but I'm willing to tie it to the dying silver maple. This small area of my backyard is built for birds, as you'll see by the pictures. Help! What do you recommend for assistance, or other suggestions.
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
The best route is to consult an arborist to determine why the Juniper is leaning so severly. Trees may grow this close to each other in nature, but it is astonishing that the juniper has grown to its current size planted this close to the large maple. Your picture makes it look like there is not enough space and soil to support the roots from both trees. They are competing against each other and the maple is winning. Ask an arborist if removing the maple including its surface roots on that side would be best to allow the juniper roots to establish themselves in the soil.
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
The first picture shows incorrect pruning of the branch stub that is extending to the right. Was this branch removed to allow the juniper to grow? If you have the space and the money to pay for it, ask an arborist if the juniper can be dug up and replanted fifteen feet or more away from the maple.
If moved, the tree should be staked upright using two to three stakes placed around it, either metal or wooden. Anchor the Juniper with the soft ties to the stakes, ensuring that there's some play so the branches can move slightly. This helps the tree adjust while still being supported. Use a soft material that won't damage the bark of the Juniper, such as old garden hose pieces or wide straps. Avoid wire or narrow materials, as they can cut into the bark and harm the tree.
https://ask.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=309596
After securing it, you can monitor the tree and see if it begins to return to an upright position. If it remains bent, you may need to leave the stakes in place for the entire growing season. Good luck!
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
The first picture shows incorrect pruning of the branch stub that is extending to the right. Was this branch removed to allow the juniper to grow? If you have the space and the money to pay for it, ask an arborist if the juniper can be dug up and replanted fifteen feet or more away from the maple.
If moved, the tree should be staked upright using two to three stakes placed around it, either metal or wooden. Anchor the Juniper with the soft ties to the stakes, ensuring that there's some play so the branches can move slightly. This helps the tree adjust while still being supported. Use a soft material that won't damage the bark of the Juniper, such as old garden hose pieces or wide straps. Avoid wire or narrow materials, as they can cut into the bark and harm the tree.
https://ask.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=309596
After securing it, you can monitor the tree and see if it begins to return to an upright position. If it remains bent, you may need to leave the stakes in place for the entire growing season. Good luck!
