Do you dream of a weeping willow in your own garden? No problem, simply propagate the deciduous tree yourself by growing it from cuttings. In contrast to other tree species, the weeping willow grows into a stately tree after a short time. You can read how to proceed with propagation on this page.
How do I propagate weeping willow with cuttings?
To grow weeping willow cuttings, take 35 cm long shoots from an existing weeping willow in frost-free winter days and place them in soil or water before planting them outdoors in warmer temperatures.
Gain cuttings
If you already have a weeping willow in your garden, you can easily remove a few shoots from it. Otherwise, you can find weeping willows almost anywhere in rural areas. Keep an eye out especially along rivers. Here the trees are particularly popular as bank reinforcements. A few cuttings are enough and do not represent a loss for the weeping willow. However, do not cut off too many free-standing trees. In summer, birds breed in the weeping willow, which is why you are liable to prosecution if you cut it too much.
Instructions
- On a winter-free day in winter, remove shoots about 35 cm long from an existing weeping willow.
- Place the cutting in the desired location in the soil.
- Water the young shoot sufficiently.
- Cover the surrounding soil with straw.
Alternative
Since weeping willows are primarily propagated in winter (the collected shoots have to be used straight away), frozen ground can be fatal. In this case, you can also place the cuttings in a vase with water and only put them outside when the temperatures are warmer.
Note: When choosing a location, be sure to consider the huge dimensions that a weeping willow takes on after a short time. The short cuttings often make you forget about the rapid growth. Do not plant the cuttings near the house or directly on your property line.
Tip
Cuttings are also a great way to grow the basics for a privacy screen. To do this, simply place a number of cuttings in the soil and braid them together loosely. Even in this condition, the branches continue to sprout. If they turn green too much, pruning is recommended.
