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Free Willow!

• Message 1. 

  Posted by kaennchen (U3106067) on Wednesday, 1st February 2006

  I understand that if you stick willow branches directly into wet ground they will normally take root!
  I would lke to do this with a willow (not the weeping variety) at the edge of a pond.
  Any tips please on this? For example:
  When is the best time to do it?
  How long should the branch be?
  How deep should it be pushed into the gound?
  Is it best to make a pilot hole in the ground first, to avoid damaging the base?
  Is it best to get the roots started in a jar of water, and then plant the branch?
  Thanks!
  

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• Message 2

  , in reply to message 1.

  Posted by Margi (U2334861) on Wednesday, 1st February 2006

  Spring is probably best, but otherwise just bung 'em in and let them get on with it! Push them in 6-12", so they stand up properly on their own and they'll be fine. You probably won't damage the stems by just shoving them in - if you want to make a hole first that's fine, but there's certainly no need to root them first!
  
  Let us know how it goes, won't you?
  
  Margi x

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• Message 3

  , in reply to message 1.

  Posted by William (U2169036) on Wednesday, 1st February 2006

  Now is as good a time as ever.
  Take a 3 meter long "cutting" from an established willow. some 6-10 cm diameter at the base. Strip some bark of the bottom 50 cm. Taper the end to chissel like shape (to prevent it from turning in the wind) Drill a pilot hole of some 70 cm deep and put the stake in the hole. Try to push it in to about 100 cm, if you can.
  
  But even split segments of willow branches put in the soil opside down will root. As will a branche left laying on moist ground.
  
  Pollarding every 4 year or so at 200 cm high will keep it in check a bit. Letting it go can result in a 25 meter high tree - or more.

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• Message 4

  , in reply to message 3.

  Posted by lance-scaper (U2904712) on Wednesday, 1st February 2006

  
  Hi
  It is not a good idea sticking any tree near the edge of a pond, for obvious reasons-root penetration for one.
  regards
  lance

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• Message 5

  , in reply to message 4.

  Posted by Margi (U2334861) on Wednesday, 1st February 2006

  I got the impression this was a natural pond, Lance, but obviously if it's not this needs a re-think!
  
  Margi x

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