A braided willow tree adds a unique visual element to any garden, captivating observers with its woven trunk structure. This ornamental tree enhances various landscapes, providing year-round interest even after leaves fall.
What is a Braided Willow Tree?
A braided willow tree is an artistic creation, not a natural species, formed by intentionally weaving multiple young willow saplings together. These saplings, often Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’ (Dappled Willow or Flamingo Willow), are manipulated while young to grow into a unified, intricate trunk. The process involves intertwining individual willow rods, which fuse over time to create a single, patterned stem supporting a canopy of foliage. This results in a compact, ornamental form, typically maintained as a small tree or large shrub. ‘Hakuro-nishiki’ leaves emerge pink in spring, maturing to variegated shades of pink, creamy-white, and green.
Planting Your Braided Willow
Select an appropriate site for successful establishment. Braided willow trees thrive in full sun to partial shade, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They prefer well-draining soil that consistently retains moisture, similar to their native habitats near water sources. While willows tolerate various soil types, amending dense clay soils with organic matter can improve drainage and nutrient availability.
Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. For containers, choose one with drainage holes, at least 18 inches deep and wide, and use quality potting mix. Gently loosen the root ball and trim damaged roots before placing the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the braided portion stays above the soil line. Backfill, tamp gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Essential Care for Your Braided Willow
Braided willows require consistent moisture, especially during establishment and drought. Newly planted trees need thorough daily watering for the first few weeks, soaking the root zone. Once established, water whenever the top few inches of soil feel dry, typically every 2-3 days in warm weather, ensuring consistent moisture. Container trees dry faster, so monitor soil moisture regularly.
Fertilization supports healthy growth; willows are not heavy feeders once established. Newly planted trees benefit from a balanced organic fertilizer or compost. For established trees, apply a slow-release granular fertilizer (e.g., 20-10-10 or 20-20-20) in early spring before new growth. Over-fertilizing, especially with excess nitrogen, can increase susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning maintains the braided structure and shape. The best time for significant pruning is during the dormant season, late winter or early spring. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches with clean shears. Throughout the growing season, regularly trim “suckers” from the lower braided stems to maintain the woven appearance and direct energy to the canopy. For the crown, prune overly long branches by about one-third annually to encourage bushy regrowth and maintain proportion.
Troubleshooting Common Braided Willow Issues
Braided willows may experience issues, including unraveling stems. If the braid loosens, carefully re-tie affected branches with soft garden twine, ensuring not to tie too tightly to avoid bark damage. Regularly remove new shoots along the braided trunk to preserve the woven pattern.
Pests such as aphids, small soft-bodied insects, feed on sap, causing leaves to yellow or curl. Willow leaf beetles chew holes or skeletonize leaves. Manage these pests by spraying foliage with water or insecticidal soap. Diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and cankers may also occur. Powdery mildew appears as white growth on leaves, rust causes yellow or orange spots, and cankers are sunken, discolored areas on stems. Prompt removal of infected branches and good air circulation help manage fungal issues.
Poor growth or yellowing leaves can signal underlying problems. Overwatering or underwatering are common causes; check soil moisture to determine the issue. Yellowing leaves may also indicate a nutrient deficiency, like lack of nitrogen, addressed with fertilizer or liquid iron. Inadequate light exposure can also contribute to poor growth.