How to Start a Globe Willow From a Tree Cutting

Root cuttings in well-drained soil.

Salix globosa and Salix matsudana are botanical names for the same non-weeping willow -- the globe willow. The Asian native grows 70 feet tall with branches that curve up forming a round shape. Globe willows are hardy to the Department of Agriculture zones 5 to 10, where the deciduous plants thrive as shade and ornamental trees in a variety of settings. Not unlike other willows, this species is simple to propagate from cuttings taken in late winter to early spring.

Things You'll Need

• Potting mix
• Pot with drainage holes
• Cloth
• Alcohol
• Shears

Instructions

1. Add potting mix to within ¼ inch of a pot's rim. Moisten the soil thoroughly.

2. Dip a cloth in alcohol and wipe your shears' blades. The alcohol kills potential pathogens that might otherwise infect the tree when you cut into it.

3. Cut a 16-inch branch section off the globe willow.

4. Plant the stem's cut end in the moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist through the rooting process.

5. Move the pot outside after the cutting roots, to harden it off. Do it after the last spring frost. Take one week to gradually introduce the willow sapling to a full day in the sun. Transplant the young tree to its permanent location.

References

• Arizona State University: Scientific: Salix matsudana (Synonym Salix globosa)
• Southwest Yard & Garden; Starting Willow Trees from Stem Cuttings; November 1999
• Weber State University; Starting Willow Clippings in Water or Dirt?; Joni Harris; 2007