Creeping Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis
Quick Care Guide
Prune: Light prune for shape; remove dead or crowded branches
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade
Water: Water during dry spells; drought-tolerant once established
Fertilize: Not typically necessary; optional light feeding in spring
Leaves: Small, oval, glossy green leaves
Flowers: Tiny white or pink flowers in late spring to early summer; followed by red berries in fall
Pruning
Cotoneaster requires minimal pruning but benefits from occasional shaping to maintain a tidy form. In late winter or early spring, remove dead, damaged, or congested branches to improve air circulation. Groundcover varieties may be trimmed lightly to control spread, while larger shrubs can be pruned for shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce flowering and berry production.
Watering
Once established, cotoneaster is relatively drought-tolerant and only needs watering during extended dry periods. Young plants should be watered regularly during their first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Always ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Leaves
Cotoneaster leaves are small, simple, and oval-shaped with a glossy green surface. Some varieties are deciduous, while others are evergreen or semi-evergreen depending on the species and climate. In fall, the foliage of deciduous types often turns vibrant shades of red and orange.
Sunlight
Cotoneaster thrives in full sun but also tolerates partial shade. For best berry production and dense foliage, plant it in a location where it receives at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Fertilization
Cotoneaster typically does not need fertilizing in well-prepared soil. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can support growth, especially in poor soil conditions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can lead to leggy growth with fewer flowers and berries.
Flowers
Cotoneaster produces small, delicate, five-petaled flowers in shades of white or pale pink during late spring to early summer. While not showy, they attract pollinators and give way to clusters of bright red or orange berries in the fall, which persist into winter and provide visual interest as well as food for birds.