|
| Salix alba
Weeping willowCulture: White willows are highly adaptable to all kinds of soil conditions, but prefer moist sites and require full sun. They are fast growing and weak-wooded, often dropping branches and twigs everywhere, especially as they age. They are pH adaptable and can be grown in wet to slightly dry sites. This species is fibrous rooted and easy to transplant. Willows also have pre-formed root initials in their stems that begin to grow when placed in contact with water. I have propagated this species by breaking off branches and sticking them in wet ground. There are many minor insect and disease problems, including bacterial twig blight, crown gall, cankers, mildew, aphids, weevils, scale, borers, and sawflies. The trees are inherently fast growing but have a moderate lifespan at best. Storm damage and irritation at their messiness in old age can bring out the chainsaw. Usage: This is a great species in moist sites where little else will grow. In other situations, it is probably best to choose something else. There are few redeeming ornamental features other than the nice habit and yellowish cast in the winter months. It does do a fairly decent job of naturalizing around streams and ponds, however care should be taken to plant male selections to prevent seeding of this European introduction. Care must be taken to keep it away from sewer pipes, as the roots often invade and clog them. Cricket bats and balls are constructed from female selections of the var. coerulea. |
