How do you care for cotoneaster horizontalis?
How to care for Cotoneaster horizontalis: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Cotoneaster tolerates poor or dry soils once established but benefits from improved soil with added organic matter at planting time. Space well to allow for its spreading habit and air circulation around the base. See our full collection of flowering hedge plants. Cotoneaster horizontalis is an extremely tough plant and will grow anywhere other than extremely waterlogged soil. It can be cut back at any time with care to maintain its herringbone structure.Cotoneaster horizontalis is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act as an invasive species. This does not mean you cannot grow it in your garden but we encourage gardeners to think carefully about its potential impact on wildlife and to consider alternatives.Cotoneaster divaricatus, commonly called spreading cotoneaster, is an upright, rounded, densely branched, deciduous shrub that matures to 5-6′ tall and spreads to 6-8′ wide. It is particularly noted for its attractive form, glossy green leaves, dark red autumn fruit and autumn foliage colors.
How long does cotoneaster live?
Cotoneaster mostly spreads via seed expulsion, but more so by birds following digestion of the berries, which means the plant can spread a great distance. The shrubs are hardy and can live up to 50 years if not controlled. What’s the problem? Cotoneasters are non-native species which can quickly out compete native plants. Berries are fed upon by birds dispersing seeds over large areas. Forms an extensive root system which is difficult to remove.About the Cotoneaster Makes an ideal hedge, is attractive in a rock garden or spilling over a rock wall, easily adaptable ground or sloping bank cover to reduce erosion, and their berries support songbirds.While Cotoneaster can grow on fairly barren areas like limestone slopes in coastal regions, their roots can establish deep into the ground which can be difficult to remove without excavation.The simplest way to train a cotoneaster is to hammer in rust-proof nails where needed to support stems, then use extension growth to develop the coverage upwards.
What is the problem with Cotoneaster?
Cotoneasters are relatively trouble free, but they can be susceptible to the fungal disease fireblight. If it’s spotted, prune away and dispose of any affected growth, cutting a good distance away from the affected area, and disinfect your secateurs before moving on to prune any other plants. The most common problem with cotoneasters is mites. These pests suck plant juices causing the leaves to look speckled and in severe cases brown and fall off. These are a common problem during hot dry summers. Spray the plants with a strong blast of water to help control the mites.Cotoneasters are relatively trouble free, but they can be susceptible to the fungal disease fireblight. If it’s spotted, prune away and dispose of any affected growth, cutting a good distance away from the affected area, and disinfect your secateurs before moving on to prune any other plants.The most common problem with cotoneasters is mites. These pests suck plant juices causing the leaves to look speckled and in severe cases brown and fall off. These are a common problem during hot dry summers. Spray the plants with a strong blast of water to help control the mites.
When should you cut back Cotoneaster?
Cotoneaster franchetti and lacteus hedge plants only require a light trim once a year, after the berries have fallen, whereas Cotoneaster horizontalis requires pruning in late winter or early spring. Cotoneaster simonsii will be at its best at heights between 1-1. Cotoneaster is an excellent multi-season plant, offering spring flowers, fall berries, and year-round structure. Lifespan: 20+ years with proper care.Cotoneaster franchetti and lacteus hedge plants only require a light trim once a year, after the berries have fallen, whereas Cotoneaster horizontalis requires pruning in late winter or early spring. Cotoneaster simonsii will be at its best at heights between 1-1.