cinereaare also sometimes called pussy willow.
Pussy willows grow quickly.
Some species achieve heights of 25 feet, so they make greatprivacy screen shrubs.
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They need plenty of water and are therefore an apt choice for any poorly draining locations in your yard.
Pussy willows can be kept more compact and shrub-like throughproper pruning.
Pruning also prevents ice and snow damage to all willows, which are brittle plants.
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you’ve got the option to tell the difference between male and female pussy willows by appearance.
The catkins of male plants yield numerous tiny, pollen-filled flowers later in spring.
The female catkins bear flowers that receive the males' pollen via flies and bees.
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Don’t let their soil dry out too often, as they need consistent water to produce healthy flowers.
Light
Pussy willows do best in full sun, but they will tolerate some shade.
Soil
This plant likes loamy, moist, rich soil.
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It wants to be kept wet.
It tolerates poorly-drained soil, but performance is best if the soil is well-drained, yet constantly moist.
Water
These plants love moisture.
A close up of the furry catkins of the Goat Willow TreeAconcagua/ Wikimedia Commons /Creative CommonsAttribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported
You will need to ensure they have plenty of water and are not subjected to drought.
In dense, water-retentive soil, about one inch of rain/irrigation per week is usually sufficient.
In porous soil, your pussy willow may require more frequent watering to keep the soil constantly damp.
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They grow slower in warmer climates (zones 6 to 8).
Pussy willows readily tolerate high humidity.
Fertilizer
Pussy willows can do well when fed with just compost or leaf mold.
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Don’t let the fertilizer come into contact with the trunk of the plant.
However, several otherSalixspecies can carry the common name:
Is This the Right Plant for You?
Practiced every year for three years, this pruning process will keep the shrub fresh and vibrant.
Pruning Tip
Pruning with sharp, good-quality shears is important for maintaining healthy plants.
We’vetested some of the best prunerson the market to bring you our expert-backed recommendations.
Transplant outside when the danger of frost is past.
Use any ordinary commercial potting mix in a large pot (any material) with good drainage.
Potted pussy willows are normally grown outdoors year-round.
They don’t make good permanent houseplants.
In winter, potted pussy willows are best moved to a sheltered location.
When repotting, use a container at least twice as wide as the previous pot.
It’s best to divide the rootball, if possible.
Pussy willows growing in pots need daily watering, a more frequent cadence than required by in-ground plants.
Insect pests include aphids, scale, borers, lacebugs, and caterpillars.
During severe infestations, pesticides can be used.
Pests to Watch
Aphidsand caterpillars are both common pests found on pussy willow trees.
Common Problems With Pussy Willow
Pussy willows are generally fast-growing, prolific plants.
If it’s in a pot, it should be easy to move.
Cracking Banches
In general, willows have rather weak, brittle branches.
When there’s wind or heavy icing, the branches may split or crack.
Wildlife Damage
Deer, squirrels, and birds like to eat the branches of pussy willows.
you’ve got the option to protect them withchicken wireor similar fencing.
Yes, these plants are known to attract viceroy and mourning cloak butterflies.
Pussy willows last from 20 to 50 years if they’re taken care of correctly.
Only male plants have showy catkins.
If your plant has rather small, drab green catkins, it is probably a female plant.
Pussy willows are simple to grow and maintain.
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Plant of the Week: Pussy Willow.University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Extension.
