The roots of these trees actively seek water and grow over long distances. Their aggressive roots can extend farther than the tree’s height, usually along the ground, and are attracted to water.
Weeping willow trees are best planted next to bodies of water, such as ponds and rivers. They should also be given plenty of space away from other trees. And weeping willows grow best in full sunlight or in partial shade, so they should not be beneath the shadows of taller structures.
Never plant weeping willows (or any other tree with a huge root system) near a septic drain, as the roots can cause serious damage.
When planting, make sure the tree is away from your septic system or any underground pipes to prevent root damage. Choose a location where the spreading tree roots will not interfere with other plants or buildings.
Willows Prefer Full Sunlight
Plant your weeping willow in full sun or partial shade (anywhere that gets about 4-8 hours of sunlight per day), choose a site with well-drained soil, and a distance of at least 10 meters from your septic system or leach field. Place the tree in the center of the hole, then fill it halfway with soil. Hit the bottom of the hole with a shovel to roughen the ground and help the tree roots adapt.
Check the depth of the hole before planting: Look for signs of ebb and flow in bare-root trees and make sure the top of the root ball is flush with the ground for potted trees. Saturate the soil with water until the soil around the tree is compressed. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season to help the cuttings develop healthy roots.
Once established, the willow can tolerate some drought, although it may shed its leaves. If your tree is planted in an irrigated lawn, it should receive plenty of water. This makes them useful in areas with stagnant water and to prevent soil erosion. Watering will be necessary if planted in sandy or drier soils.
Prune the Willow in Late February
If you want your tree to be stronger, you can prune it in February or March by pruning all of its branches. We recommend doing this in late autumn or early winter when the tree is dormant. Once the tree is planted, walk around it, connect the branches and cut back.
Pruning willows is not necessary, although in the first couple of years you may consider removing damaged and crossed branches. Plant weeping willow in full or partial sun and where there is sufficient room to accommodate mature trees that can reach 20 meters in height. Test the soil and change if necessary. Make sure the soil is well drained and allows free flow of water, air and nutrients. Make sure the area gets enough direct, unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. and the aggressive growth rate of the tree above and below the surface.
Now that you have chosen a location, you can decide how to plant the tree. This way, when spring comes, the tree will already be rooted and ready to grow. The best time to plant these trees is autumn, so that the roots have time to develop before the first frost.
Expect a Few Feet of Growth per Year
You can expect 3 to 4 feet of growth each year (older trees will slow down slightly). These large trees require ample space as they grow 30 to 50 feet in height and width, so it is very important to choose your planting site wisely. In nature, these trees usually grow near streams and rivers.
Types of Willows Natural Beauty of Weeping Willows There are many types of this beautiful weeping willow, as we have trees and willows, but their penchant for moist soil and sometimes invasive roots is constant. There are woody and shrubby willows, all of which are characterized by a preference for moist soil and thin, sometimes invasive root systems. You might consider planting a row of weeping willows in front of or behind a row of slow-growing but long-lived trees, such as oaks.
Otherwise, if the willow is near your house, you will need to prune and care for it a lot. Next, you’ll want to think about what shape you want your weeping willow to take. To help deter animals that want to eat the willow, you can place a fence around the tree.
Weeping Willows Need Plenty of Space
Weeping willows are best planted where there is enough room to grow, preferably near water where the soil will not be disturbed. Weeping willow trees typically grow in sandy soil with at least four hours of direct sunlight. Although it prefers moist and slightly acidic soils, it grows well in alkaline, clay, rich, sandy, and rich soils.
If the soil in your area is too alkaline, you can add some organic matter. After rooting, it is enough to water the plant during periods of drought or when the soil starts to dry out.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the amount of fertilizer as the tree grows. Plant disease-resistant trees and provide enough water to keep the tree healthy. Make sure the tree is exposed to direct sunlight for at least 4 hours a day. Sunlight – Plant in full sun, allowing the tree to get partial shade from time to time.
This tree tolerates a variety of well-drained soils and soil pH levels. The grafted tree is no more than 1.5m long, suitable for small gardens or even potted plants. It is one of the fastest growing shade trees, reaching 6-8 feet per year.
Willows Grow Tall and Die Young
Among the many varieties, willow can grow up to 65 feet. Willow has a short lifespan of 30 years and grows relatively quickly. Different varieties grow best depending on access to water, soil type, and availability of sunlight, so find a willow tree that is sure to grow in your area. The genus Salix includes over 400 species of trees, all willows.
These include willows known for their elastic fluffy earrings, black varieties native to North America, corkscrews known for their spiral stems, and colorful golden or white willows. Willows grow quickly and do best in full sun and with access to water, growing over 10 feet per year. Best used in full sun and plenty of water, willows will add a sweet serenity to a planted yard. Dwarf willows have a shallow height of only 2 inches and grow almost like grass in floodplains, while weeping willows can grow to 65 feet tall and at least 40 feet wide.
Like most fast-growing trees, willow wood is brittle and prone to cracking, especially if you live in an area with severe winters, ice storms, and high winds. Because the trees are somewhat fragile, willows are susceptible to wind damage.
The IFAS Extension at the University of Florida says weeping willows prefer to be planted in rich, moist soil, but are tolerant of a variety of soil types from sandy loam to clay, acidic or alkaline. Lighting requirements range from full sun to partial shade and are generally drought tolerant. Just make sure to keep them dry or they will start to shed some leaves.