How to Prune Willow Trees
Willows are normally found growing in moist soil in the northern hemisphere. Willows do well in cold to temperate climates and are adaptable to all kinds of conditions. They are fast-growing shade trees, sprouting up 10 feet per year. This can cause them to get out of control without routine pruning. Cut branches to improve the health of the tree and make it more aesthetically pleasing.
Climb the ladder and examine the willow tree's canopy. Look for diseased, damaged and dead branches, as well as those that are crossing each other.
- Willows are normally found growing in moist soil in the northern hemisphere.
- Look for diseased, damaged and dead branches, as well as those that are crossing each other.
Use a saw to cut unwanted branches at the collar, which is the thick section at the base of the limb. Place the cut as close to the collar as possible, without leaving much of a stump.
Look for groups of several branches growing from the same spot. Cut off all but two or three of them.
Do extreme pruning on weeping willows that have heavy damage or those which have grown out of control. Willows can handle being cut down to their trunks--they will re-grow. Cut them down to their base during dormancy (winter) and they will sprout back up.
- Use a saw to cut unwanted branches at the collar, which is the thick section at the base of the limb.
Trim the oldest branches every few years to keep the tree healthy and in the best shape possible. Make all cuts at the V-shaped joint they share with other limbs.
Willow Trees & Ponds
All willows grow well near water, but not all are good choices for small ponds. The form of the weeping willow and its 40-foot height are reasons why many landscapers and home gardeners choose to plant them by ponds. Willows have invasive roots that seek water. They can also clog drains. A moderate windstorm might be enough to bring down some branches. A few species of willow can become weedy, so you might want to avoid planting these by your pond. Willows love water -- lots of water. If the weather is hot and the water is also evaporating rapidly, you may need to add water to the pond.
- Trim the oldest branches every few years to keep the tree healthy and in the best shape possible.
- A few species of willow can become weedy, so you might want to avoid planting these by your pond.
Tip
Wear gloves when pruning willow trees.
Use care when climbing a ladder.
Have someone help you remove and carry large limbs.
Warning
Don't prune willows that grow close to utility lines. Call the power company and let professionals handle it.
Related Articles
References
- ArboristSite.com
- Fast Growing Trees Nursery: Weeping Willow
- TreeHelp.com: Willow
- North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension: Salix Babylonica
- University of Illinois Extension: White Willow
- Washington State University Clark County Extension: Pacific Willow
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Salix Discolor
- University of California IPM Online: UC IPM Illustration
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation: Water Savings From Willow Removal
Writer Bio
Based in New York State, Kelly Shetsky started writing in 1999. She is a broadcast journalist-turned Director of Marketing and Public Relations and has experience researching, writing, producing and reporting. She writes for several websites, specializing in gardening, medical, health and fitness, entertainment and travel. Shetsky has a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Marist College.
