Cotoneaster

Cotoneasters can be propagated with softwood cuttings taken in early summer. The use of a rooting hormone is highly recommended.

Low growing species can be propagated by simple layering in the fautumn. Pin a low growing stem to the ground, using a piece of stiff wire bent into a U, leaving the last 6 to 12 inches of the stem exposed. Cover the pinned area with soil, then bend the tip sharply into a vertical position (for upright plants) and nick the bark on the underside of the bend. Provide a stake to hold it in place. Once the layer is well rooted, it can be severed from the parent and moved to another part of the garden.

Purchase a container-grown plant from a reputable nursery. The best time to plant cotoneasters is the autumn although they will also do well if planted in the spring. Pick a spot where you are certain you want to keep the plant as cotoneaster does not transplant easily. The best locations have full to partial sun and well-drained, alkaline soil. Avoid areas where the soil tends to experience saturation for extended periods. Plant ground cover plants 5 feet apart. Space larger plants about 4 to 6 feet apart.