Choosing the Right Location

• Full Sun to Partial Shade: 'Cousin Itt' thrives best in full sun, where it will have the most vibrant, dense foliage. It can tolerate partial shade, but may grow less densely in shadier spots.
• Warm, Frost-Free Climates: Suitable for USDA zones 9-11, this plant prefers warm weather and may suffer if exposed to prolonged frost. In colder regions, consider planting it in a container that can be moved to a sheltered location during winter.

Soil Preparation

• Well-Drained Soil: This plant needs well-draining soil to thrive. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or rocky soils but struggles in heavy, waterlogged clay. If your soil is dense or retains water, amend it with sand, gravel, or organic matter to improve drainage.
• Slightly Acidic to Neutral pH: 'Cousin Itt' prefers soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (about 6.0-7.5).

Planting Process

1. Dig the Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. This will allow the roots to spread out easily.
2. Position the Plant: Carefully remove the plant from its container and gently loosen the roots if they are bound. Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the surrounding soil surface.
3. Backfill and Water: Fill the hole with soil, pressing it down gently around the plant. Water deeply to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
4. Apply Mulch: Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, but keep it a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

Watering

• Regular Watering During Establishment: For the first year after planting, water 'Cousin Itt' regularly to help it establish a strong root system. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but do not let it dry out completely.
• Drought-Tolerant Once Established: After the plant is well-established, it becomes more drought-tolerant and will only need occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods.
• Avoid Overwatering: Be careful not to overwater, as this plant does not tolerate soggy, waterlogged soil.

Fertilization

• Minimal Fertilizer Needs: 'Cousin Itt' generally does not require much feeding. If the plant appears to be struggling, you can use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive, leggy growth.
• Improve Soil with Organic Matter: Adding compost or organic matter during planting can enrich the soil and reduce the need for frequent fertilization.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Minimal Pruning Required: One of the appealing qualities of 'Cousin Itt' is that it maintains its shape without needing regular pruning. However, you can trim back any dead or damaged foliage to keep the plant looking neat.
• Light Shaping If Desired: If the plant starts to grow unevenly or spread too far, you can lightly trim it back to shape it, especially in spring or early summer. Avoid heavy pruning.

Pests and Diseases

• Generally Pest-Free: 'Cousin Itt' is quite resilient and is not usually affected by pests. However, occasionally you might see aphids or spider mites. If needed, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Prevent Root Rot: The main disease issue to watch out for is root rot, which can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil is poorly drained. Make sure the soil drains well and avoid waterlogging the plant.

Spacing Between Plants

• Ideal Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart. This allows each plant enough room to spread and create a dense, mounded form. This spacing will encourage the plants to fill in naturally, forming a lush, continuous ground cover without overcrowding.
• Closer Spacing for Dense Coverage: If you want a quicker, denser look or are using 'Cousin Itt' as a ground cover, you can plant them 1.5-2 feet apart. This will help the plants fill in more quickly, but be aware that they may need some thinning or more maintenance to prevent overcrowding.

Distance from Structures

• At Least 1-2 Feet Away: When planting near pathways, walls, or other structures, keep 'Cousin Itt' at least 1-2 feet away to allow the plant to spread naturally without becoming obstructed. This spacing helps maintain airflow around the plant, which can prevent issues like mold or mildew.

Spacing from Other Plants

• Plan for Mature Width: Since 'Cousin Itt' can spread up to 4-6 feet wide, make sure to give it enough room when planting near other shrubs or ground covers. Avoid planting too closely to larger plants that might overshadow it, as it performs best with sufficient light and space.