How to Graft Weeping Willow Trees

Willows are considered the easiest tree to propagate by many gardeners. In most instances, the gardener need only clip a branch, submerge it in water or moist soil for a few days, and be rewarded with new root growth for spring or summer planting. Gardeners who prefer to graft leaf buds to a willow tree stump should use the simple shield graft.

Things You'll Need

• Grafting knife
• Grafting wax
• Rubber electrician's tape

Instructions

1. Make a T-shaped cut with your grafting knife in the bark of a willow tree stump. Be sure the cut is low to the ground.

2. Choose a young willow wand about 5 inches long to be your grafted, or scion, branch. Be sure it has at least one large leaf bud and a leaf stem.

3. Use your grafting knife to cut around the leaf bud in a modified triangle or shield shape. The flat end of the shield cut should be made just above the leaf bud.

4. Use downward strokes with the knife to cut out the rest of the shield shape. Gently remove the leaf bud by grasping the leaf stem. Do not touch the bud itself.

5. Pull back the bark on the willow tree stump without touching the soft undersides. Slip the leaf bud section into it.

6. Apply grafting wax to the cut to promote healing. Wrap the graft in rubber electrician's tape.

References

• Thrifty Fun: Propagating a Weeping Willow Tree
• University of British Columbia: Weeping Willow Branch Growth