I don't want to kill my junipers!

[downtoearth2]

I have two junipers shrubs. They are about 12 foot around, 6 feet high and I would like them to be about 4 foot around. They are only green for about 18 inches from the out side in. Will they live if I chop em down to size?

[MaineDesigner]

Short answer: No
Like most conifers Juniperus sp. can't break new growth on old wood. It sounds like you might be able to reduce that 12' diameter to 10' but even that would be iffy. If it has to be limited to 4' in diameter you need to replace it with another shrub.

[downtoearth2]

That's a great answer!