Is this a good time of year to start a ****** Willow Tree?

violann · ‎03-10-2010

We've tried twice, with no luck. I was wondering if it might be better now that it's a little cooler.

ValuSkr · ‎03-15-2014

I think Spring is the best time to plant a tree, since it's wetter and cooler than other seasons. On the other hand, I've read Fall is a good time for planting because the ground is warm. I guess it depends on your Winter - if it isn't too harsh, you may be okay planting now. I've read that willows are okay in wet locations, fror example near a pond or stream, but I don't know if they need to be in those spots. Probably best to ask the nursery where you're buying the tree.

Ms X · ‎09-13-2012

I can't answer you for sure, but I know this: You shouldn't plant roses too late in the season up north because they won't have time to put down sufficient roots against the cold. Depending on where you live, this could be a big issue. Spring might be a better time to do this. Find out when it's safe to plant it in the spring (unless you're in the south) and do it as early as possible. That will give it time to grow roots for the winter.

An interesting fact about snow: Snow acts as an insulator around the roots of roses and I suppose other plants. The changes in temperature and severe cold take less of a toll on plants when there's a lot of snow on the ground. Last winter I lost a cold-hardy climbing rose due to the lack of snow. You should insulate the young tree against the cold if you live in a cold climate.

geezerette · ‎03-16-2010

You need to consult a local nursery. Some trees/plants should be planted in the fall and others in the spring. It depends on the plant and your location.

fthunt · ‎12-24-2010

I'd be interested in why you want a willow tree. (that tree would be my last choice) Reasons: they are a dirty tree - they are a soft wood tree and prone to split in the crotch of the main trunk when they get very large - they need a lot of water - and they don't hold up good in severe storms, like strong wind. I planted one in a wet lawn area because they do soak up excess water; but during a storm when it was big and looked stable - over and down it went. Suggestion: don't plant near buildings. Good Luck with a willow.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

When I was a child, before we had clothes dryers, dad made a clothesline using part of a willow tree as one of the posts. Darn thing sprouted and grew into a tree. Must not take much to get them to grow.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

debcakes · ‎03-11-2010

We are constantly cleaning up the mess from our willow. Even just a strong wind brings down branches. Squirrels cut branches to build nests, but they drop a lot of them. I will not buy another house with a willow tree.

sweetee2 · ‎06-21-2015

The best time to plant a tree is October. If you go to a nursery they are always on sale in October.

libbyannE · ‎10-27-2010

What do all the asterisks mean?

We have willows along the lake shore behind the house and love their beauty and shade. I would think that planting in a wet doing would be best. They need water, which is why they do well along the water's edge.

ValuSkr · ‎03-15-2014

@debcakes wrote:
We are constantly cleaning up the mess from our willow. Even just a strong wind brings down branches. Squirrels cut branches to build nests, but they drop a lot of them. I will not buy another house with a willow tree.

The OP may already know they are messy. Why else would she refer to it as a "****** willow tree?"