Bearberry cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri): when and how to prune

Bearberry cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri): when to prune it?

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Pruning is rarely needed. In March–April, cut back branches that spread too far or grow over a path or edge.

What else to prune in those months? March · April

Bearberry cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri): how to prune it?

1. Cut over-long branches back to just above a side shoot.
2. Remove dead or winter-damaged branches.
3. An old, bare plant can be cut back hard in spring; it usually shoots again well.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: March–April.
• Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in March–April can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Bearberry cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) flowers in May–June, when it attracts bees.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Cotoneaster
• Franchet’s cotoneaster (Cotoneaster franchetii)
• Late cotoneaster (Cotoneaster lacteus)
• Wall cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis)
• Willow-leaved cotoneaster (Cotoneaster salicifolius)
• Alder buckthorn

Plant profile: Bearberry cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) · Pruning calendar and basic rules