If I cut the top off an old cotoneaster will it grow from the bottom?

Question

I have a very old cotoneaster that has no foliage on the bottom 3 feet. The top is very vigorous but arches over other plants and keeps them in the dark. It is in a relatively small border. If I cut off the top growth will the plant shoot again from the old wood?

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Answer 1

It's tough to say whether the tree will sprout from the old wood at the bottom because the cotoneaster naturally shapes itself as you're seeing it now. My guess is it will continue to flourish at the top. However, those long branches can certainly be pruned back. I am adding links to a couple articles that may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/cotoneaster/pruning-cotoneaster-shrubs.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/damage-from-over-pruning.htm