Nothing announces springtime in New England like the arrival of pussy willows! These fuzzy little catkins are hardy, native, wetland plants which thrive in zones 4-8 and are very easy to propagate and grow. Read on to learn how to grow pussy willows that will be enjoyed for many springs to come.
How to Grow Pussy Willows Photo Credit : Dreamstime
Traditional and popular, wild-growing pussy willows look lovely as centerpieces bunched together in a tall vase or urn. Alternatively, the stems can be anchored in floral foam in a shallow planter, allowing for a looser look and more creative control. Individual pussy willow sprigs can add height and interest to bouquets of spring-blooming flowers and potted plants, and they add a nice touch when woven into spring wreaths.
HOW TO GROW PUSSY WILLOWS
Pussy willows root so easily that burying the cut end of a fresh cutting (stems should be at least the size of a pencil and about 12 inches long) about 2 inches deep in good soil is all that is usually necessary. Be sure to leave at least a few nodes (where the buds form) uncovered by soil. Within a few weeks, stems should be well rooted in the ground.
If you prefer to begin rooting inside, simply add water to an indoor pussy willow arrangement and the branches will begin to sprout roots. Pussy willows produce a natural rooting chemical which is beneficial to other plant cuttings as well. You can place cuttings from other plants in with the water with the rooting pussy willow shoots to take advantage of the natural rooting hormone.
When the pussy willow stems have produced roots that are a few inches long and abundant (about 2-3 weeks), plant them in a pot with rich, clean potting soil with a handful of peat mixed in. Keep the soil evenly moist but not wet and muddy. When the danger of a frost has passed, plant outside.
It is important to note that pussy willows are wetland plants that prefer full sun, so be sure to choose a location with these conditions for optimum growth. When established, pussy willow trees will grow to have invasive roots, so it is best to avoid planting near septic tanks or sewer and water lines.
Are you a fan of using pussy willows in your spring decor?
This post was first published in 2016 and has been updated.
Shelley (Fleming) Wigglesworth is an award-winning freelance journalist from Maine and a certified Maine Master Gardener who writes gardening articles on a regular basis for NewEngland.com. Her work can be found in the following publications: The Village Magazine, York County Coast Star, Yankee Magazine (online), National Fisherman Magazine, Commercial Fisheries News, Points East Magazine, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Maine Lobstermen's Association's "Landings."
