Being a willow, the Pussy Willow seems to be able to grow where ever water is prevalent. Whichever type of these trees you are thinking about planting; take these 5 tips on growing Pussy Willow into consideration. They might come in handy!
5. Purchase a Healthy Tree
It’s easiest to grow a healthy looking Pussy Willow by starting with a quality tree. Most nurseries sell saplings that are 2 or 3 years old and they usually have a very well-established root system already on them. You can also root a branch of a Pussy Willow tree in a jar of water and plant this in the ground once there white roots fill the jar.
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When selecting your tree, inspect it for signs of good health such as vibrant green leaves, sturdy branches, and no evidence of pests or disease. Be sure to ask your nursery about the care that has been taken with these young plants, so that you can continue the same level of attention as they adapt to their new home in your garden. If you're starting from a branch, choose a healthy section from an established tree and give it time to develop strong roots in water before transferring it to soil—patience is key to nurturing a flourishing Pussy Willow from the very beginning.
4. Water Them Often
Since these are related to the rest of the willow trees, they love a lot of water. The more water you can give them, the faster they seem to grow. Be sure to provide them with plenty of additional water during the dryer months, in order to help them continue to grow tall and strong.
Frequently asked questions
Oh, you’re going to love this! Just dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep. Place the tree in, fill it back with soil, and water it well. Easy peasy!
Yes, they do! Pussy willows love water, especially when they’re young. Make sure to keep the soil moist, but not swampy. They’ll thank you for it!
Totally! Just snip a healthy branch, stick it in water until roots form, then plant it in soil. Voila, you’ve got a new pussy willow!
They love sunlight, so pick a sunny spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. And remember, they like their feet wet, so a spot near a water source is perfect!
Oh, they can get pretty tall! Some varieties can grow up to 20-30 feet. But don’t worry, you can easily prune them to keep them smaller and more manageable!
3. Prune Branches for a More Compact Tree
The Pussy Willow tree can get to become quite a large specimen. If you wish to keep it on the small side, prune the branches once the catkins appear. This will provide you with some beautiful catkin-covered branches to make a table arrangement with or to offer to friends for a Pussy Willow tree starter of their very own.
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Pruning a Pussy Willow tree is an important part of keeping it healthy and attractive. Pruning helps to maintain a more compact shape, and encourages more flowers and catkins to appear. When pruning, start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This will help to prevent the spread of any disease or pests.
Next, prune back any branches that are growing too close together, or that are growing in an undesirable shape. This will help to keep the tree looking neat and attractive. Also, prune branches that are growing too far away from the main trunk. This will help to keep the tree more compact.
When the catkins appear, prune the branches back to about two-thirds of their original length. This will help to encourage more catkins to appear, and will also keep the tree looking neat and attractive.
Finally, prune any branches that are growing in a downward direction. This will help to keep the tree looking upright and healthy.
2. Plant These Trees Well Away from Septic Tanks
These water-loving trees have been known to raid septic tanks, sewer lines, and water lines while searching for water. Even if you water Pussy Willow trees often, they will still send roots probing into a septic tank.
1. Fertilize during the Fall
Sprinkle granular fertilizer around the tree, making sure to leave at least a couple feet of space between the fertilizer and the trunk of the willow. Don’t apply any fertilizer the first couple of years after planting a Pussy Willow. Wait until the roots are well established first.
In general, Pussy Willow trees are rather easy to grow and require mostly water. I love seeing the fuzzy little catkins each spring. Can you think of any additional tips that might be useful to someone who’s never grown a Pussy Willow before?
Top Photo Credit: el_vigilante
Comments
donna: hello someone gave me three small little pieces she took off a tree and they do have roots. can i plant them in a hugh container to m ake sure they take first? also i will be momving in two years so are they easy to take back up and replant? thanks I hope to hear from you soon so I now how to plant this. do i also use any speciasl dirt if I plant them. I have lots of clay in my back yard
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