Wisconsin weeping willow (Salix pendulina)

Also known as: Weeping Willow, Pendulous Willow

Salix babylonica, known as the weeping willow, is a medium to large deciduous tree, typically reaching a height of 20 to 25 meters. This tree is known for its rapid growth but relatively short lifespan, usually ranging from 40 to 75 years. The branches are yellowish-brown and adorned with small buds. Its leaves are arranged alternately in a spiral pattern, slender, and light green, measuring 4 to 16 cm in length and 5 to 20 mm in width. The leaves have finely serrated edges and taper to long, pointed tips.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Wisconsin weeping willow

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

9 m to 15 m

Spread

5-15 meters

Leaf Color

Bright green

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Flower Color

Yellowish-green

Images of Wisconsin weeping willow

Quickly Identify Wisconsin weeping willow

Look for a large tree with drooping branches that create a sweeping, umbrella-like canopy. Its leaves are narrow, lanceolate, and bright green on top with a paler underside. In spring, it produces catkins that are yellowish-green in color.

Scientific Classification of Wisconsin weeping willow

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Willow

Genus

Willows

Species

Wisconsin weeping willow

Planting and Growing of Wisconsin weeping willow

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Wisconsin weeping willow?

Salix pendulina loves moist soil, requiring around 1000 ml of water per session. The soil should be evenly moist but not waterlogged. To achieve this, the water should permeate through to a depth of at least 6 inches, ensuring that the roots enjoy consistent moisture levels.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Wisconsin weeping willow? ›

What should I do if my Wisconsin weeping willow is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Wisconsin weeping willow? ›

How to save an overwatered Wisconsin weeping willow? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Wisconsin weeping willow?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Providing Salix pendulina with full to partial sunlight supports its photosynthetic needs, enhancing growth, foliage density, and overall plant health.

What are the ideal light conditions for Salix pendulina? ›

How can I ensure my Salix pendulina gets ideal light? ›

What benefits does ideal light provide to Salix pendulina? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Wisconsin weeping willow?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 77℉

Salix pendulina thrives best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 77°F. This range provides a balance of warmth and coolness, encouraging ideal growth and development. Within this temperature range, the plant's photosynthesis processes occur efficiently, enabling healthy foliage and blossoms.

What Soil is Best for Wisconsin weeping willow?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Salix pendulina thrives in soil with good drainage. Well-drained soils prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot or other fungal diseases. Drainage ensures that roots receive sufficient oxygen, promoting healthy growth and development. While drainage is important, the soil should also retain moisture to support the willow's preference for moist environments. A balance of both allows the plant to remain hydrated without becoming waterlogged, leading to robust growth. Loam or sandy loam, being rich in organics, provides Salix pendulina with essential nutrients. This nutrient availability supports overall plant vigor, ensuring resilience against stressors such as pests and environmental changes.

How to Fertilize Wisconsin weeping willow?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When it comes to applying fertilizer to Salix pendulina, moderation is key. Use about 1.5 to 2 pounds of a well-balanced granular fertilizer per 100 square feet. For liquid fertilizer, a dilute solution should be sufficient. Always read the label for exact measurements.

How to Prune Wisconsin weeping willow?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Start by removing any dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of infections. Cut back to healthy wood, making your cuts just above a bud or lateral branch. Proceed with shaping the tree to maintain its elegant, weeping structure, ensuring to trim the longest branches to maintain balance. Cut at natural growth points to encourage graceful regrowth. Thin out any dense clusters within the canopy to improve air circulation which reduces the risk of fungal diseases. Remove some crossing branches as well to prevent rubbing wounds. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Wisconsin weeping willow plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose a vigorous and healthy plant from which to take cuttings. This will ensure that the cuttings are more likely to root successfully and grow into robust new plants.

Cut a section of new growth from the willow, typically 6 to 12 inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to prevent rot and to allow for the clear transfer of nutrients.

Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it into a pot filled with potting mix. Water thoroughly and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Wisconsin weeping willow plant?

Repotting frequency: Once every two years

Keep an eye on your Salix pendulina in early spring. When you see roots emerging from the drain holes or note the soil retaining water longer than usual, these are cues that your weeping willow needs a bigger pot. Repotting at the right time ensures optimal growth and prevents root-bound conditions.

Opt for a pot that is at least 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Make sure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent excess water retention, which willow dislikes. A terra-cotta or ceramic pot is ideal as it allows the soil to breathe, offering the roots a healthy environment.

Choose a well-draining loamy soil mix, ideally one enriched with organic matter. This type of soil provides the right balance of drainage and nutrients, promoting strong root development. A balanced mix prevents waterlogging, which is crucial for the health of your weeping willow.