Pleasingly, harlequin willows sprout again after a short time, even after a vigorous pruning. Regularly shortening the branches is an essential part of care. In this way you promote dense, bushy growth. You also don't have to worry about shortening your ornamental shrub too much. You will be amazed at how quickly the new shoots occur. You will be equally disappointed if the promised growth does not materialize. Here you can find out why this could be.
Why isn't my harlequin willow sprouting?
A harlequin willow may not sprout if it was cut in the fall or during frost, as this makes the plant sensitive to frost and affects new growth. Changing locations or injuries to the roots can also mean that the harlequin willow does not receive enough nutrients for sprouting.
Causes
If your harlequin willow does not sprout at the usual time in spring, you probably cut the shrub at the wrong time, namely in autumn. If the temperatures fall below 0°C at night, the otherwise hardy harlequin willow becomes sensitive to frost if it is pruned late. This is largely due to the poorly healing interfaces. In addition, pruning always stimulates new growth. For this, the harlequin willow has to generate energy, which it ultimately lacks in winter. Another option is to move the harlequin willow. After a change of location, older specimens in particular have difficulty forming new roots. There must always be a balanced relationship between above-ground and underground growth. Only with sufficiently large roots will the harlequin willow be supplied with enough nutrients for sprouting.
Special features of the standard tree
A standard tree is usually a grafted plant. If you cut into the grafting area when shortening the branches, you will cause serious damage to the harlequin willow.
How to do it correctly
- It is best to cut your harlequin willow in the spring before it sprouts.
- When using a standard trunk, make sure to shorten the branches to at least ten centimeters.
- Only make topiary cuts in summer.
- Damage as few roots as possible when transplanting.
- Dig a trench around the harlequin willow six months before transplanting. Fill this with compost to strengthen root formation.
