QuestionThere is an aged willow that has a significant connection to my family historically. I would like to grow a descendant from the original tree in a different local. can this be done and how. Thank You.
AnswerWillows contain a plant hormone that promotes rooting so they are easy to propagate. A cut branch can actually be stuck directly into moist soil in the summer and roots will develop after only a few short weeks. To root other times during the year, you can start them in a vase of water and transplant them outside in the spring. Use cuttings that are about 1/2 to 1 inch thick in diameter and about 5 - 16 inches long.
You can also use a good Rooting Hormone to start your Willows if you prefer to do it that way.On the stem where the Willow has been cut dip the cutting in the rooting hormone before potting in a well balanced soil.Keep the potting soil moist but don't over water.If the cutting about a month and a half then slightly tug on the cutting to see if any roots have started.Don't tug hard and don't pull the cutting out of the soil.You should be able to tell if the rooting has begin with a slight tug.
