Weeping Willow
salix babylonica
Also known as: ["Babylon Willow","Pendulous Willow"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its gracefully drooping branches and lance-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix babylonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, near water bodies or in open spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–20–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and health needs.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure proper spacing for airflow.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture, avoid compacted soil, test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cold but may suffer in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).
Protect from frost, water deeply before cold snaps, avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; water before and after application; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; keep soil consistently moist; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy, heading cuts to reduce height, and removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape tree, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage strong structure.
Tools
Pruning saw, loppers, hand pruners, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove root ball, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; if container-grown, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status, trim roots, use fresh soil, ensure drainage, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch, wilting, premature leaf drop, stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause dieback in extreme cold; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base, wrap trunk with burlap in severe cold, avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, mist foliage in the morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use correct dilution, water before/after, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are more sensitive to salicin than dogs. Ingestion of Salix babylonica can result in gastrointestinal distress and potential toxicity due to their smaller size and different metabolic processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe salicin content in Salix babylonica can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort and digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix babylonica, commonly known as the weeping willow, contains salicin, a compound chemically related to aspirin. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does a Weeping Willow grow?
A: It is a fast-growing tree, often adding several feet in height each year.
Q: Does the Weeping Willow require a lot of water?
A: Yes, it thrives in moist soil and near water bodies but can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: Are Weeping Willows prone to any diseases?
A: They can be susceptible to fungal infections, root rot, and certain pests like borers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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