Juniperus horizontalis ’Plumosa Compacta’ were grown in 3.8-L containers to compare the factorial effects of irrigation (top vs. capillary) and controlled release fertilizer placement (incorporated vs. surface-applied) on shoot nutrient content and growth. These treatments were compared with a liquid fertilized control. Shoot N contents on 30 June (31 d after potting) were highest in plants which were top-irrigated and supplied with incorporated Nutricote, but were lowest in these plants at the end of the season (28 Sept.). Top-irrigated, Nutricote-incorporated, and liquid-fertilized plants showed the highest shoot K contents on 30 June. Lowest shoot K occurred in the top-irrigated, Nutricote-incorporated treatment on 28 Sept. In comparison with N or K, shoot P showed much less variation over the growing season. Incremental branch growth was less when fertilizer was surface-applied than when it was incorporated, but end-of-season shoot dry weights were similar in all plants except those which were top irrigated and supplied with incorporated Nutricote. This treatment produced the highest end-of-season shoot dry weight and best overall growth. Seasonal growth was positively correlated with early season (30 June) shoot N and K contents.Key words: Controlled release fertilizer, Nutricote, irrigation, Juniper