Take a cutting that is about 10-inches long. Next place the cutting in water. In time roots will begin to form and you can plant your new tree outdoors.
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In areas where the soil stays moist such as beside a pond or river bank, you can just stick the cutting in the ground. Push it down fairly deep so that about 2-inches rises above the soil surface.
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When planting your new willow tree it is important to choose a location that is about 100 feet away from buildings and underground pipes. Willow roots are notorious for wandering in search of water and will often cause damage to water or sewer lines and house foundations.
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Also, willows must have copious amounts of water. Heat and drought stressed trees are susceptible to a number of diseases. So be sure to plant your willow where it will receive plenty of water.
How to Grow Willow Cuttings
- Give the Willow Sticks a Fresh Cut. Cut about 1” of the bottom of the stick off. To determine top from bottom, look at the leaf nodes along the stick and make sure they are pointing upwards.
- Place the cuttings in a bucket of water. Willow propagates readily and is eager to grow. So shoots will easily produce roots in a bucket of water.
- Change the water weekly (optional). Since roots require oxygen, my theory is that it's a good idea to change the water regularly before it becomes stagnant, otherwise the roots could drown and die back. Once per week is enough.
- Wait for roots to develop, then plant the cuttings in the ground. Once roots become a couple of inches long, dig V-profile slots in the ground, about 10 inches deep.
- When the plants become saplings, transplant to ground. Move the new saplings to their final location.
- Water regularly. Water regularly to prevent dry out, especially in dry weather.
Alternative Propagation Method: Planting in Soil
An alternative way of propagating is to take cuttings and plant them straight into the ground. The soil needs to be reasonably soft and cultivated for this method to work.
- Push a metal rod, roughly the diameter of the cutting, into the soil to a depth of about 10 inches to make a hole.
- Next push the cuttings 6” down into the ground, leaving at least 3 buds above the surface.
The advantage of rooting in water is that you can be sure that the cutting has developed roots before planting.
For those who appreciate the quiet elegance of nature’s subtleties, the Heirloom Purple Pussy Willow is a must-have addition to your landscape. With its velvety catkins in a striking shade of deep purple, this charming shrub adds a touch of whimsy and refinement to any garden, especially during the transitional weeks of late winter and early spring.
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A true conversation starter, the Heirloom Purple Pussy Willow is ideal for those who find joy in celebrating the nuances of each season. Whether you’re pruning branches for a show-stopping centerpiece or watching the catkins unfurl on a misty morning, this plant reminds us that beauty often lies in the smallest details.