Curly willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’), also known as corkscrew willow, is celebrated for its distinctively twisted branches, which add unique visual interest to gardens and floral arrangements. Propagating this attractive plant through water rooting is a straightforward and highly effective method. This process allows gardeners to easily multiply their curly willow collection, ensuring a continuous supply of these ornamental branches.
Why Root Curly Willow
Rooting curly willow branches offers several advantages. It allows gardeners to create new plants at minimal cost, transforming a single mature plant into multiple specimens. The distinctive, contorted branches are highly sought after for decorative purposes, providing architectural elements in floral displays, holiday decorations, or as standalone art pieces. Curly willow also grows quickly, making it an excellent choice for establishing a fast-growing ornamental tree or shrub in the landscape.
Preparing Cuttings for Rooting
Successful rooting begins with selecting and preparing healthy cuttings. Choose branches approximately 0.5 to 1 inch thick and 8 to 18 inches long. Avoid branches thicker than a pointer finger.
Make a clean, angled cut at the bottom of each branch, preferably just below a leaf node or bud. An angled cut increases the surface area for water absorption. Remove any leaves or buds from the lower half of the cutting that would be submerged in water to prevent rotting and conserve the cutting’s energy for root development.
Rooting Curly Willow in Water
Place prepared cuttings in a container, ensuring the bottom half to two-thirds is submerged in water. Willow cuttings contain a natural rooting hormone called auxin, which promotes rapid root development. Position the container in bright, indirect sunlight, as direct sun can overheat the water and inhibit rooting. Room temperature, ideally between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius), is suitable for rooting.
Regular water changes are important to maintain oxygen levels and prevent bacterial growth; replace the water every few days or at least weekly. Within one to four weeks, small white bumps, known as root initials, will appear, followed by the emergence of fine, white roots, often from the leaf nodes. Allow the roots to grow to a length of at least 1 to 2 inches before preparing for transition.
Transitioning Rooted Cuttings
Once roots are well-established, cuttings are ready for soil. A gentle transition minimizes transplant shock. Prepare a pot with a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture. A blend of soil-based compost and peat-free multipurpose compost, or natural topsoil with organic components, is recommended. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Carefully transfer each rooted cutting into its new pot, suspending the branch to avoid damaging the delicate new roots. Gently fill the pot with the soil mixture, firming it lightly around the roots for support. Plant the cutting deep enough to stand securely, as any portion in contact with the soil can develop additional roots. Immediately after planting, water the soil thoroughly to help it settle around the roots.
Caring for Young Willow Plants
Newly planted curly willow saplings require consistent care for healthy establishment. Water young plants regularly, especially during their first year, to maintain consistently moist soil. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry slightly between waterings, but do not let the plant completely dry out. Container-grown willows may need daily watering, depending on climate and sunlight exposure, as they dry out more quickly than plants in the ground.
Place young plants in a location that receives full sun (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day) for optimal growth. While they can tolerate some partial shade, full sun promotes the strongest development. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk to prevent pest issues. Fertilization is not typically required for newly planted willows if the potting mix is rich in nutrients, but a balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied in spring if growth appears weak.