Willow Trees

How to Care for Willow Trees

Willow tree care is very easy once they are established. Willows are adaptable to any soil type and can even thrive in wet conditions. Water newly planted willow trees thoroughly 2 to 3 times per week for the first couple months. Apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch around young willow trees to help the soil retain moisture, reduce watering needs, and keep weeds at bay. These shade trees are very fast growing so they like their nutrients. They can be fed when planting and in spring with a slow release fertilizer. If your soil is nutrient weak, fertilize in late summer or early fall as well.

When to Plant Willow Trees

Spring and fall are great seasons for planting these trees. For warmer parts of the United States you can plant willow trees in winter as well. Areas that have mild summers can plant in summer. Offer plenty of water when planting in summer to combat stress from heat and transplantation.

How to Plant Willow Trees

Your potted willow tree should be watered well prior to planting to ensure the root ball is moist. Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball. When you put your tree into the hole, the top of the root ball should be slightly visible above the existing soil line. Next, gently tamp the soil back into the hole around the root ball. After planting, water deeply at the base of your tree until the ground can no longer hold water. Apply a 1 to 2 inch layer of mulch around your willow tree. Keep the mulch an inch or 2 away from the trunk to avoid pests and disease.

When to Prune Willow Trees

The best time to prune willow trees is in winter or early spring when they are dormant. Fall when temperatures are cool and trees are beginning to slow down their metabolic processes is also a great time for willow tree pruning. Broken, dead, or diseased branches should be trimmed off immediately. Minor pruning can be done at any time.

Corkscrew Willow

A stunning and distinctive, small shade tree, the corkscrew willow is lovely in just about any yard. With unique twisted branches this tree stands out in the home landscape. The fast growing corkscrew willow grows in full sun or part shade. This hardy tree stands up to deer, disease, black walnut (juglone) and salt.

Weeping Willow Tree

The weeping willow is a classic American shade tree. With its characteristic weeping branches this shade tree is easily recognizable. The weeping willow is one of the fastest growing shade trees. These trees grow all throughout the United States. They are easy to grow and tolerate deer, black walnut, and wet soil.

Willow Oak

The willow oak is not a willow tree at all. It is actually an oak tree. Between its name and elongated leaves, the willow oak is often confused for a willow tree. This hardy and sturdy shade tree has a long life span and is great for the environment. It provides shelter and food for wildlife and birds.