Weeping Willow Pruning Tip: Should I Cut Down a Weeping Willow Tree?
The lovely weeping willow, with its long tresses swaying in a gentle breeze, is the most graceful tree there is. But occasionally, the branches supporting the cascading foliage must be trimmed back. In actuality, a weeping willow’s health depends on its trimming. Continue reading if you’re unsure of when or how to prune a weeping willow.
Reasons for Pruning a Weeping Willow?
Among all trees, a mature weeping willow is the most romantic. Pictures of willows growing beside placid lakes with their tumbling branches reflected in the still water are common. That gorgeous canopy needs to be cared for, though, in order to remain beautiful and healthy. To maintain a weeping willow looking its best, you must prune it.
It makes sense to trim the tips of a weeping willow’s branches to balance the foliage of an ornamental tree. But there are other, more important reasons to think about pruning weeping willows. With time, the branches of weeping willows may reach the ground. Although this might be visually appealing, it prevents people from being able to drive a car or stroll beneath the tree.
More importantly, you can assist the tree in developing a robust branch structure by pruning a weeping willow. If the tree is grown with just one trunk, it will be stronger and more attractive. Furthermore, weakly attached branches that have the potential to break off and harm the tree are frequently seen.
When to Trim Willows That Weep
Late winter is when you should pull out those pruners. By pruning weeping willows in the winter, you can make dormant tree trimmings. Additionally, it prepares the willows for spring growth by keeping them in good condition.
Pruning a Weeping Willow: A Guide
The first thing you should do when cutting a weeping willow is to inspect each leader. After deciding which central stem to save, you must begin pruning your weeping willow. Slice off the heads of all the other rival leaders.
A weeping willow requires you to identify which of its branches is strong and which is not before you can prune it. Strong horizontal branches of a weeping willow should not be pruned. It is unlikely that branches that join the trunk horizontally will split off. Instead, remove any branches that have “V” shaped junctions as they are more likely to break off.
After a storm, pruning weeping willow is also required. Using a pruning saw, cut off any split or damaged branches. Cut slightly below the break. Trim back the limbs until only living tissue is visible if you notice any dead wood.
