A pasture in your own garden? For many gardeners, the tall deciduous tree has a very special appeal. You too can decorate your property with a willow tree. Whether as a small ornamental plant, a nostalgic weeping willow or, or, or. Both the shrub form and the tree are very species-rich and offer a wide range of different pasture types. What they all have in common, however, is that certain aspects must be taken into account when planting.
How to plant a willow tree in the garden?
To plant a willow in the garden, choose a sunny location with enough space and loosen the soil. Dig a hole three times the diameter of the root ball, add compost and plant the willow. Water them well and support them with a stake if necessary.
Location requirements
Light conditions
Willows need a sunny location. While trees can cope with direct sunlight, ornamental plants such as the harlequin willow should be kept in partial shade. But it shouldn't be too dark, otherwise the plant won't develop its impressively colored foliage.
Substrate
Here, too, there are differences between small potted willows and free-standing trees. The former cannot tolerate waterlogging, while trees feel most comfortable near water. Furthermore, the soil should have the following properties:
- nutrient-rich
- always moist
- loose and permeable
- sour to neutral
Place
The space in your garden is the most important criterion. The available area depends on whether you can plant a willow in your own garden or whether you should opt for a harlequin or hanging catkinse willow in a pot. Willows are known for their large surface and underground growth. While the crown reaches up to 20 meters into the sky, the roots can lift stones from sidewalks or patios. Therefore, always calculate a planting radius of 20 meters. There should be no buildings or plants in this area that require a lot of sunlight. Don't plant your pasture
- near the building
- immediately on the property line
- too close to the neighbor's fence (heavy fall of leaves in autumn)
Instructions
It is best to plant your willow in spring. Especially if it is a young specimen, you should wait until the night frosts subside. This is how you proceed with planting:
- Choose the right location carefully.
- Loose the soil in the desired place.
- Water the root ball of your pasture.
- Dig a hole three times the diameter of the root ball.
- Add some compost to the soil.
- Insert the root ball.
- Compact the hole with soil.
- If necessary, add a stake to support the pasture during the first few months.
- Water the pasture well in the first day.
- A layer of mulch is also useful.
More tips
There are various options to choose from when planting a willow tree. Depending on whether the planting is for a specific purpose or to beautify your garden, you have the following choice:
- as a solitaire
- in the bucket
- as a hedge plant