In summer the tree provides pleasant shade from the hot sun. Conversely, does he need your support in winter? On this page you can read whether and how to properly overwinter a weeping willow.
How do you protect a weeping willow in winter?
Does a weeping willow need special protection in winter? Generally this is winter hardy. However, frost protection with a layer of mulch is recommended for young weeping willows or potted plants. Older specimens need the removal of rotten branches and regular watering on frost-free days.
Care measures in winter
After the first two years of standing, the weeping willow is completely hardy and can even withstand temperatures down to -32°C. You no longer have to pay attention to frost protection. Nevertheless, the weeping willow still needs some
attention. On frost-free days you should always water the tree so that the substrate does not dry out.
Older weeping willows are also very susceptible to breakage. If the snow load is too heavy, falling branches could cause personal injury or property damage. Prevent this by removing rotten branches in autumn. If you cut back your weeping willow, you should also choose a frost-free day. Smooth the interfaces with the saw. This will accelerate wound healing.
When is antifreeze required?
Weeping willow in a bucket
Although willows have adapted to the seasons in the wild, potted plants require frost protection. A layer of mulch protects the roots from freezing. An insulated bucket further promotes this effect.
Young weeping willows
In the first two years of growth, weeping willows are still susceptible to sub-zero temperatures, even outdoors. A heat-retaining layer of mulch also helps here. It also makes sense to support the young tree so that the still tender trunk does not snap during strong winter storms.
The real weeping willow
Did you know that the weeping willow that you most often see here in Germany is actually a hybrid? It is a breeding that largely comes from the white willow. The real weeping willow originally comes from China. If you buy a weeping willow for your own garden at the tree nursery, it is important to know whether you have bought a hybrid or a real weeping willow. The latter is also not hardy.
