A young pussy willow does not have to go through a tree nursery because it can easily be propagated at home. However, in order for your own efforts to be rewarded, the timing of your action is crucial. You should know this too.
How to propagate a pussy willow?
To propagate a pussy willow, you can either sow seeds or use cuttings. Seeds can only be used shortly after maturity, while cuttings are cut in spring and planted in clay pots with potting soil and loam mixture.
Valible propagation routes
Kitten willow, also called catkin, can usually be propagated by seeds and cuttings. Our hands are only tied when it comes to the popular Hanging Kitten Willow. Although the annual cutting produces plenty of cutting material, it is not suitable for propagation. This variety is a refinement. So if it absolutely has to be this variety, there is no way for a hobby gardener to avoid the tree nursery.
Propagation from seeds
Sal willow seeds are not sold commercially. However, it shouldn't be difficult to get to them. The sal willow grows in nature and in numerous private gardens. From the age of four it will also bear seeds. Once they reach maturity, they are only able to germinate for about two weeks. The time window for sowing is therefore short and must not pass unused.
- Fill pots with moist potting soil (€6.00 on Amazon)
- Spread seeds on top
- just press gently, do not put any soil over it
- germination usually occurs within 24 hours
- select the strongest seedlings and plant them in separate pots
- plant out after a few weeks
Note:
Wild palm catkins are protected. Its branches must not be cut from March 1st to September 30th. However, collecting seeds is allowed.
Propagation using cuttings
Spring is the best time for propagating cuttings. Since the catkin willow has to be cut immediately after flowering, there is enough propagation material. Here are the instructions for how to proceed:
- Get small clay pots, each with a large drain hole.
- First fill in a drainage layer made of coarse gravel or clay shards.
- Add a potting soil and clay mixture.
- Select strong, straight-grown cuttings from which you remove all leaves and buds.
- Insert one cutting in each pot, about 15 cm deep.
- Press down the soil and water the cuttings.
- Place the pots in a bright place.
- Keep the soil slightly moist at all times.
After about two weeks, new growth will also become visible above ground. However, the rooted cuttings still need time to develop into strong young plants. Only then should you plant them in their intended location.
