The weeping willow tree is a stunning attraction in any yard or landscape. Have you recently taken an interest in weeping willows and want to plant them in your own yard? One thing you need to know is how far apart to plant weeping willow trees so you won’t experience problems later on.
Here’s a short guide on how to plant a weeping willow tree properly.
Weeping Willows and How to Plant Them
There are roughly four steps you can follow to successfully plant willow trees.
Step 1. Choose the Weeping Willow Planting Site
Light and soil are the two most important things you need to consider when planting a willow tree in your garden.
For the willow species, you should choose a location that gets direct sunlight for at least 2 to 4 hours each day. Furthermore, the soil medium must be well-draining yet capable of holding enough water to feed the tree.
Step 2. Remember to Keep a Distance Away From Power Lines and Sewers
The location you choose won’t be permanent yet. Weeping willows are vigorous growers that send out thick roots underground and are known to disrupt sewer lines. You shouldn’t put the tree near your house either as it can ruin the foundation.
As a general rule, you should observe at least 50 feet distance away from sewer lines, underground pipes, and structures when planting a weeping willow tree.
It can grow as big as 45 feet and have its roots extend to find a water source. Furthermore, you shouldn’t plant them along sidewalks or patios as the roots can disturb them as well.
Step 3. Planting Your Weeping Willow
Once you’ve chosen the best site, then it’s time to plant the weeping willow tree.
Start by digging a hole that’s double the width of the sapling’s root ball. The depth should be more or less the same. Doing this encourages the tree to form roots horizontally and grow outwards.
Plant the willow in the middle of the hole and make sure it’s standing up straight. It’s recommended that you double-check before starting the backfill or else the roots won’t hold properly.
Then, fill in half of the hole with soil and stop for a moment. Let the sapling sit and prepare 2 gallons worth of clean water. Slowly and gently water the half-filled hole and allow the water to run its course. Do it in an even manner so all the roots will get wet. Don’t tamp the soil halfway and reserve this action for later.
Fill the rest of the hole with soil and gently tamp down to remove the air pockets around the tree’s roots. Let it rest for a day or two, then check and see if the tree is growing properly.
Caring for Your Weeping Willow
Weeping willow trees love to drink, and younger ones even more so. You should pay attention to the needs of your weeping willow and give it a good watering regularly. It’s recommended that you water at least once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Falling leaves signal that your weeping willow is thirsty. It’s safe to water your tree every day during the summer or when the weather is hot. Then, ease off on the hose at the end of the fall season and during winter.
As for pruning, the weeping willow benefits from a regular schedule. Shorten branches that are forming a deep ‘V’ from the main trunk, as well as mature ones that are getting too long. Trimming can be done in late winter or early spring while the willow is still dormant.
Related Article: How Long Do Weeping Willow Trees Live?