Gert 2023-2026 ROR (Cotoneaster glaucophyllus)

[Gert]

Had this spare rock sitting around and a bunch of grayleaf cotoneaster cuttings so I thought why not utilize them for this contest. I'm not expecting an outstanding result, but would be neat if I could get some nice roots formed and some berries/flowers by the end of the contest. Used some JB weld to fix the stone to a flatter stone so I could tie it in to this small pot that I made last year. I put a handful of cuttings in key spots on the rock and wrapped with raffia. All of the roots extend down into the regular akadama/pumice mix. The roots that are wrapped to the stone surrounded by the cut up poly pot are are in a larger sized lava mixture. I have never used lava for this before but will be interesting to see the results. I'm hoping I can cut back the poly pot in year 2 and wire the lower cuttings.

 

[Gert]

Some good growth so far this year. Got a couple cute flowers along the way too. I'm going to continue feeding it heavily and see where I'm at next winter. I may need to remove the soil to wire things before they get too firm (may be too late already down low).

 

[Gert]

I did a lot of cutbacks on this one and fed pretty heavily. Will take a look under the lava in spring and then wrap her back up.

 

[Gert]

Pretty ugly and not really seeming to attach to the rock well or believably. Used twine this time to try to draw the 'sticks' closer to the trunk. Up-potted into a deeper container.
Hoping once some larger roots develop I can cut back hard to near where the trunks emerge from the rock.

This might all be a waste of time but they were spare cuttings and an old aquarium stone so I am happy to let it sit neglected and grow (with lots of fert).

 

[Gert]

The roots have been re-covered. Just showing the image of the first years root growth.