The cotoneaster is found in many gardens, front gardens and is often found on streets. Their value as ground cover is not to be despised. It is considered extremely undemanding. But what other characteristics characterize them?
Why is cotoneaster a good ground cover?
The cotoneaster is a first-class ground cover that is characterized by its dense growth, good frost hardiness, evergreen foliage and low maintenance requirements. It is ideal for greening slopes, embankments, beds and dark locations.
A first-class ground cover plant
A richly branched, dense and closed growth develops over time. The cotoneaster prefers to be close to the ground. It spreads flat to prostrate. It gains 10 cm of growth per year. Within a few years, if several of these plants are planted at the correct distance, a carpet-like overall appearance will result.
With this growth, the cotoneaster is ideal for greening slopes and embankments, for beds, as a gap filler in perennial beds and rockeries and for pathsides. Since it feels at home almost everywhere, even the darkest locations with the worst soils can be improved with it.
Easy to care for and frugal
If its growth becomes too sprawling (it likes to multiply via runners), it can be cut back in April. As a rule, it tolerates cutting extremely well.
Other characteristics that characterize this ground-cover plant include:
- good frost hardiness
- an evergreen foliage garment
- an enormous soil and location tolerance
- a low need for care
- due to its dense growth it drives away wild herbs
A highlight that other ground cover plants don't have
In addition to the delicate, white flowers in early summer, the cotoneaster is particularly surprising with its numerous fruits. They make them an exceptionally decorative ground cover. This makes it stand out from other plants and creates striking contrasts.
The spherical fruits develop in late summer and tend to stay over the winter. They are berry-like, slightly poisonous and immediately catch the eye with their fiery red to reddish-brown color over the lush green foliage.
Tips & Tricks
Caution: Cotoneasters are among the plants that are extremely susceptible to fire blight. They are considered the main hosts of this bacterial disease. Therefore, check the plants regularly for infestation.