I've heard that you can take a branch from a wheeling willow, stick it in the ground, and it will eventually sprout into a new tree. Is that true? What's the best way to do this?
3 Answers
Check out these resources for more details on live staking techniques! They explain how to do it effectively: https://extension.psu.edu/live-staking-for-stream-restoration and https://www.allianceforthebay.org/2019/03/live-staking-a-trusty-technique-for-planting-trees-and-shrubs-on-the-cheap/
I've had great success with different willow species. I find that if I cut a branch in early spring before it starts growing leaves, it tends to root quite well. Just make sure you're picking the right time of year!
Yes, you can definitely propagate many trees, including willows, by sticking a branch in the ground! However, for the best chances of success, timing is key. Early spring is usually the best time since the tree is still dormant. You might also want to try using rooting hormone and starting in water before transferring to dirt. Not every branch will take, but many will if you do it right!
Thanks for those links! Quick question—if I have an old stump, can I drill a hole into it and put a willow cutting in there? Would it grow?