How to Plant Weeping Willows

Weeping willow foliage

Weeping willow trees have colorful bark, wispy foliage and contorted branches. They thrive in sunny areas in planting zones four through nine. The tree tolerates wet soil, hence its frequent use in landscaping around ponds and lakes. The tree's large canopy and long foliage also make it a favorite shade tree for both humans and animals. Weeping willows can grow 40 to 50 feet high, with a width extending to 40 feet.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Hoe

1. Find a location for your weeping willow that is at least 30 feet way from septic tanks, sewer lines and concrete areas such as sidewalks and driveways. Weeping willow roots extend very far, and have been known to invade septic tanks and crack concrete structures.

2. Plant your weeping willow in the fall, about six weeks prior to the last expected frost. If your area is experiencing a heat wave, place your weeping willow in a shady area, like a garage, until the heat wave passes.

3. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the container that holds your weeping willow. This will give the tree roots plenty of room to grow.

4. Place your weeping willow in the freshly-dug hole.

5. Refill the hole with dirt up to the three's trunk. Be sure that the roots are completely covered. Air pockets around tree roots can cause them to dry out.

6. Tamp down on the loose soil with the flat end of a hoe to ensure that the dirt is firmly settled into the hole. Add more soil if needed.

7. Water the soil around your freshly-planted weeping willow. Check the soil every couple of days before the first frost, and water the tree as the soil begins to dry out. Once winter arrives, your tree will go dormant and its leaves will fall off. Watering during winter isn't necessary. Water again when the temperatures warm and spring returns.

Tips & Warnings

• Pull any weeds that grow around your newly-planted weeping willow. Do not not use a chemical weed killer within 2 feet of a weeping willow during its first year.

References

• Plant Dictionary
• All Experts

Resources

• Read this Article in Portuguese