How to Use Weeping Willow Branches for Rooting

A willow tree

The salicylic acid found in weeping willow trees is known to aid in a plant's root development. Almost all parts of the willow, from bark to twigs, contain ample amounts of salicin, an effective rooting ingredient useful for plant cuttings. You can easily make a solution of salicylic acid from weeping willow branches to help root and multiply plants.

Things You'll Need

• Weeping willow tree
• Pruning shears
• Container
• Water

Instructions

1. 

   Pruning shears

   Cut a handful of live willow branches, about 12 to 24 inches long, with your pruning shears. It's best to do this in the spring and fall, when the tree is healthiest.

2. 

   Buckets of water

   Fill a clean container with rainwater or tap water, and put the willow branches in the water.

3. Leave the branches to soak overnight in the container, in a garage or garden shed if you have one. Cover the bucket to prevent additional rainwater from diluting and weakening the solution of salicylic acid.

4. Drain the mixture by removing the willow branches and as much of the debris as possible; it does not have to be free of solids. The solution is ready for plant rooting.

Tips & Warnings

• The branches do not need to be fully submerged to produce a good result.

• Another option is to fill a glass jar with water and cut pieces of willow twigs, cover and store for later use.

• Choose durable plastic or metal buckets, preferably with a handle, for easy transport. Make sure the container is large enough to hold both the water and the willow branches.

• Avoid using polluted water that might contain harmful chemicals or bacteria that might spoil the process.

• Do not drink the solution.

• Willow branches can be sharp.

References

• Bluestem Nursery: Willow Magic