The Right Place
Willowleaf Cotoneasters grow well in USDA Zones 6 through 8, which includes much of the U.S. except areas where winter temperatures drop below 0° to -10° F., and the warmest regions such as Florida and southern Texas.
Willowleaf Cotoneasters grow best in full sun. Although not particular about soil, they do need good drainage, so avoid planting where soil is saturated for long periods. These plants are fairly drought-tolerant once established.
Planting Nursery Stock
Willowleaf Cotoneasters may be planted in the spring, but the best time to plant them is in the fall. Dig the planting hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Remove the plant from its container and pull apart or cut any roots that are densely matted. Place the shrub in the hole making certain that the top of the rootball is at, and not below, ground level. Backfill the hole with soil to the level of the surrounding ground and water thoroughly to provide good soil-to-root contact. Allow an open space the size of a 10-foot-diameter circle for each plant. For more information see file on Planting Shrubs.