How to Grow Weeping Willow Trees

Planting. Choose a growing site that receives full sun to partial shade, with moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Pull any weeds and remove any turfgrass and debris. Do not plant near any underground power lines or sewers, since weeping willows have very long roots.

How long does it take to grow a weeping willow tree?
How do you care for a weeping willow tree?
Why are willow trees bad?
When should I plant a weeping willow tree?
Where should you not plant a weeping willow tree?
Why do willow trees die?
Should you trim a weeping willow tree?
Can you overwater a weeping willow?
How do you keep a willow tree small?
Is Willow trees bad luck?
What is the difference between a willow and a weeping willow?
What do willow trees symbolize?

How long does it take to grow a weeping willow tree?

Growth Pattern. Weeping willows have a fast growth rate and can grow more than 24 inches in one year. They have a short lifespan of 30 years (on average).

How do you care for a weeping willow tree?

Leave a 3- to 4-inch space between the trunk and the mulch. Water your weeping willow regularly during dry weather if it isn't near a pond, creek or other consistent water source. Keeping the soil moist, but not soggy, at all times results in the tree's best growth.

Why are willow trees bad?

They are notorious for invasive root systems that, in search of water, will clog up pipes. Like other fast-growing trees, such as the mimosa, they are also known for having weak wood that'll drop readily in storms. As they age, their roots trend upwards, which can make them problematic for sidewalks and driveways.

When should I plant a weeping willow tree?

It's best to plant your willow in early fall when the weather is still pleasant and before heavy rains begin in late fall. Even in mild winter areas, fall-planted willows should be given at least a 3-inch layer of mulch to protect the roots if freezing temperatures hit your area.

Where should you not plant a weeping willow tree?

Why do willow trees die?

If trees are exposed to continual wetness their roots can become diseased and cause the leaf drop. Additionally, it has been noted that trees which were planted improperly, especially if planted too deep, can result in several physiological issues such as decline and dieback.

Should you trim a weeping willow tree?

A fast grower, the weeping willow requires regular trimming to maintain any ornamental shaping as well as the tree's health. Pruning prevents willow trees from developing clusters of dense, tangled branches, which can leave its fragile wood susceptible to wind and snow damage.

Can you overwater a weeping willow?

Willows are known for loving water, but it is still possible to over water them as well. If the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall off, this is a sign of both under-watering and over-watering. Check the level of dampness around the tree before you water.

How do you keep a willow tree small?

Willow trees need special pruning that begins while the tree is young.
...
Shaping a Young Tree

Remove any damaged or broken branches. ...
Choose a tall, upright stem at the top of the tree as a central leader, and remove competing stems.
Remove branches that grow up instead of out. ...
Remove crowded branches.

Is Willow trees bad luck?

The ancient Chinese believed that willow branches would ward off evil spirits and they were often carried or placed over doorways to keep those spirits away. ... If you knock on a willow tree, it is said to send away bad luck and that is where the custom of 'touch wood' or 'knock on wood' originated.

What is the difference between a willow and a weeping willow?

They are forest green on top and white on the underside. They grow on long, slim, drooping stems with smooth, golden bark. On the other hand, the bark of the trunk is brown and furrowed. Like other willows, the weeping willow's flower is an upright catkin while the fruit is a seed capsule covered with cottony fiber.

What do willow trees symbolize?

The willow tree gives us hope, a sense of belonging, and safety. Furthermore, the ability to let go of the pain and suffering to grow new, strong and bold. The image of the willow tree is our path to stability, hope, and healing.