Weeping willows (Salix alba ‘Tristis’) don’t require regular pruning in most cases. However, there are certain situations where trimming is necessary to maintain their health and appearance.
Weeping willows are large, graceful trees that can grow up to 20 meters tall. They have a distinctive, drooping crown that can spread as wide as 15 meters in diameter with age. If you have a healthy weeping willow planted in a suitable location, there’s no need to cut it frequently. In fact, allowing the tree to grow freely can often showcase its natural beauty.
The young branches of the weeping willow have a soft yellow-green bark, which darkens over time to light brown. This tree is a variety of the native “silent willow” (Salix alba), and it has long, narrow leaves that are silvery-gray on both sides, giving it a shimmering appearance from a distance. As it matures, the weeping willow’s leaves turn lush green, further enhancing its aesthetic.
It’s important to note that weeping willows are sometimes confused with the “kitten willow” or “mourning willow” (Salix caprea ‘Pendula’), another drooping variety that is often planted in gardens for its striking appearance and distinctive catkins. The mourning willow has a tall trunk that supports its overhanging crown, and like other willows, its long branches are perfect for use in weaving and crafting. The mourning willow requires annual pruning, which should be done in late spring, after it flowers. When pruning, it’s essential to cut the branches back to a fist-sized cluster to encourage vigorous new growth.
Key Points for Pruning Weeping Willows
- Weeping willows generally don’t need regular pruning if there’s enough space for the tree to grow naturally.
- However, occasional removal of dead or damaged branches is necessary to maintain the tree’s health.
- A formative cut is beneficial for young weeping willows to help them develop a balanced and aesthetically pleasing crown.
- Weeping willows, like other large willows, can be shaped into specific forms if desired.
When to Prune Weeping Willows
Weeping willows are very resilient to pruning and will quickly regenerate even after severe cuts. The best time for a significant trim is in late autumn, winter, or early spring, outside of the tree’s growing season. According to the Federal Nature Conservation Act, these pruning periods are legally recommended to avoid disturbing wildlife during nesting seasons.
Once the willow has flowered, light pruning for maintenance or thinning can be done. This involves removing dry or damaged branches, which will also help propagate new trees. Willow cuttings can be easily rooted in the ground during early spring, allowing them to grow into new weeping willows.
Pruning Young Weeping Willows
Young weeping willows typically require more attention to shape their growth and establish a harmonious crown. To do this, cut the main stem 5 to 7 buds above the desired height of the crown. After this, use a bamboo stick to guide the new growth vertically, while the side shoots form the basic structure of the crown. These side shoots should be pruned the following spring to encourage branching and help the tree form a dense, attractive canopy.
When pruning, also remove any inward-growing branches or competing shoots that could create a weak “V-shaped” fork, where two main branches originate from the same point on the trunk. These weak spots can easily break under the weight of the branches, especially in older trees.
Even large, mature weeping willows can be rejuvenated with a strong pruning session. Don’t be afraid to cut back significantly, as the tree will sprout new growth and eventually form a more compact and well-shaped crown.
Weeping Willows as Pollarded Trees
Weeping willows can also be pruned into a “pollarded” shape, a style often used with other types of willows, where the tree is cut back severely to produce a compact, rounded crown. Unlike traditional willows that grow straight branches, the pollarded version has short, dense shoots. This technique is effective when performed every two to three years, cutting back all branches except for short stubs, which encourages a fuller, more compact crown.
Pruning weeping willows, while not always necessary, can help shape the tree, promote healthy growth, and prevent damage from dead or weak branches. By following these professional pruning tips, you can ensure that your weeping willow remains a beautiful and thriving addition to your garden for many years.