The willow tree, belonging to the genus Salix, is favored for its rapid growth rate and signature cascading foliage. Its distinct appearance, particularly the popular Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica), makes it a dramatic focal point in many landscapes. The total cost is fundamentally influenced by the physical size and species of the tree, the type of vendor, and the often-overlooked expenses associated with planting and professional installation.
Initial Price Based on Size and Species
The initial purchase price of a willow tree is primarily determined by its size and preparation method. The least expensive option is a small sapling or bare-root specimen, typically a 2- to 4-foot tree sold without soil while dormant. These small trees and cuttings generally cost between $10 and $40, offering a budget-friendly way to acquire the species.
Moving up in size, container-grown willows offer more maturity and a higher rate of transplant success. A smaller container, such as a 2.5-gallon pot, might cost around $40 to $50. A larger 5-gallon container will command a higher price, often ranging from $90 to $100. These containerized trees represent a moderate investment for a tree with a more established root system.
The largest and most expensive option is a Balled and Burlapped (B&B) specimen, which is a mature tree dug directly from a nursery field with its root ball intact and wrapped in burlap. These specimens, often 6 to 10 feet tall, can cost several hundred dollars, sometimes exceeding $1,000 for very large sizes. The sheer volume and weight of the root ball contribute to this high cost, as specialized equipment is needed to handle these mature trees.
While size is the primary driver, the specific willow species also affects the price. The classic Weeping Willow is widely available and often priced competitively due to its popularity and ease of propagation. Specialty varieties, such as the Corkscrew Willow (Salix matsudana), known for its unique contorted branches, may command a premium due to their novelty. Its distinctive form is often sought after for its winter interest and use in floral arrangements.
How the Vendor Affects the Price
The source from which a willow tree is purchased significantly affects both the price and the associated level of service and quality. Big box stores and large garden centers typically offer the lowest initial prices, especially for common varieties like the Weeping Willow in smaller, containerized sizes. These retail environments focus on high-volume sales and seasonal stock, often selling a 5-gallon willow for under $30.
Local nurseries generally price their stock higher, often charging two to three times more than mass-market retailers for a comparable size. This higher cost reflects better plant care, specialized knowledge from staff, and a more robust guarantee or warranty on the tree’s health. The trees at a local nursery are typically better acclimated to the regional climate, leading to a higher likelihood of long-term success.
Online retailers and mail-order nurseries specialize in the lowest-cost options, such as bare-root stock and small cuttings. A bundle of willow cuttings can be purchased for less than $20, but the final cost must account for shipping fees, which can be substantial for larger, heavier trees. Bare-root stock carries a higher risk of transplant shock, making the low initial cost a trade-off for a need for meticulous planting and aftercare.
Hidden Costs of Planting and Installation
The purchase price of the willow is only the first step, as installation costs can nearly double the total investment. For large Balled and Burlapped specimens, delivery and transportation costs can be substantial because of the weight of the massive root ball. Shipping a large tree often involves a specialized freight charge, which can range from $100 to over $175, depending on the travel distance and the size of the truck required.
Professional planting labor is the single largest potential hidden cost, particularly for trees that are too heavy for a homeowner to manage. Hiring an arborist or a professional landscaping crew typically involves an hourly rate that can range from $50 to $150 per person. The total labor cost for planting a medium to large tree can add hundreds of dollars to the project, with some specialized installations costing $1,500 or more.
The installation also requires various materials that add to the final budget. Necessary amendments often include:
- Specialized soil mixes.
- Root stimulators containing beneficial mycorrhizal fungi.
- A layer of mulch to retain moisture.
Large trees require staking kits, which include posts and flexible ties to stabilize the trunk against wind until the roots establish themselves. These kits typically cost around $20 to $30.