Willows not only occur as sprawling deciduous trees in nature, but also make a good ornamental shrub in the garden. For example the Japanese willow from Asia. In contrast to free-standing trees, these cultivars offer the gardener the opportunity to use skillful topiary to create a special aesthetic in the crown. On this page you can read how and when to prune your Japanese willow.
A pruning gives the pasture shape and promotes healthy growth
The right time
Basically, spring is the ideal time to cut a willow tree. It is best to wait for the last night frosts. If you use the scissors at this time of year, the tree will quickly recover from the injuries. To ensure that the crown does not branch out too much, a regular basic cut is necessary. The additional topiary, on the other hand, is voluntary.
Cut back for lush greenery
If you would like your Japanese willow to have a particularly lush crown, it is advisable to start pruning (once or even several times) in summer as well. Since the deciduous tree constantly forms new shoots in the warm season, the crown thickens.
When is a radical cut worthwhile?
If you have missed a pruning date or your Japanese willow is growing unusually fast so that it loses its shape, you should tackle the branches more intensively.
The cutting technique
- trim your Japanese willow regularly or it will be difficult to maintain its shape
- don't leave stubs at the base or you'll soon be unable to get at the branches with a pair of standard pruning shears
- remove branches that are too close together
- break off the new shoots on the trunk as soon as they appear, they cost the tree unnecessary energy
tips
The cut branches are too good to dispose of. Use the leftover clippings to propagate your Japanese willow. Simply place the branches in a vase of water. After just a few days, new roots form.