How to prune milkflower cotoneaster

Late winter to early spring (February–March) for structural work; light tidying after berry season ends. Use loppers or a pruning saw to remove dead and crossing stems at their point of origin. For light shaping, cut back overlong shoots to a strong side-branch. Avoid shearing which destroys the graceful arching form.

As needed; light annual tidy is usually sufficient. Milkflower cotoneaster is a large, naturally well-shaped evergreen shrub valued for its arching form, white flowers, and long-lasting red berries. It needs little pruning. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter. Lightly trim to shape if space is limited, but avoid heavy cutting which spoils the natural habit.

Use loppers or a pruning saw to remove dead and crossing stems at their point of origin. For light shaping, cut back overlong shoots to a strong side-branch. Avoid shearing which destroys the graceful arching form.