Juniper (Juniperus communis) is one of Britain’s three native conifers and an important component of many semi-natural habitats. It is a UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species because of its declining distribution and poor regeneration in many areas. Scotland now supports approximately 80% of the remaining UK population, primarily in areas like Perthshire and Angus, but even these key sites show ageing stands with little to no young growth. The 2010 survey carried out by Nature Scot is the last data set. Back then only 7% of sites had seedling bushes! While the species is listed as of Least Concern on the ICUN Red List globally, its regional decline and slow regeneration make conservation action important in Scotland.

On 13 March 2026, TWP volunteers collected and prepared 56 juniper cuttings, which were potted into root trainers using a 50:50 mix of peat-free multipurpose compost and sharp sand. The cuttings are now in a propagator in a cool, shady location and will be misted regularly to encourage rooting.

We also gathered approximately 50 ripe berries. These were stratified in the freezer for a week, then bruised and sown in a seed tray. The tray has been placed in a semi-shaded spot and will be left for 1–2 years, as juniper seed can take a long time to germinate.

Juniper propagation is challenging. Our methods follow best-practice guidance from Forest Research: Growing Juniper – Propagation and Establishment Practices. Practical land-management advice is available in the FAS Scotland guide.

By raising locally sourced plants, TWP aims to support the conservation of this UKBAP priority species and help restore juniper scrub and woodland habitats in Tayside.

Get Involved Interested in helping with our propagation projects or future planting days? Please contact us.