Question
Hi Jim,

At a local nursery they have a weeping pussy willow that has a nice umbrella shape to it and is about 5 feet tall on the trunk.

Near the top of the trunk there is an oval hole about half an inch in diameter or a bit less than that. There are also horizontal cracks in the bark near the top. I am guessing the cracks are from the graft?

How invasive are the roots on this plant?

How dirty is this tree with spreading debris and babies all over?

Anything else you feel I should know about this tree, please let me know. They are selling this tree to me for $30.

Many thanks!

Mike

Answer
Willows are invasive as far as septic tanks and lines go. They should not be planted within 20 feet of lines and/or tanks. They seek water and the roots will get into pipes that may leak water. they are not a problem with foundations, driveway etc. I would plant then in an open space where the soil is not dry--the spread at maturity is about 20-30 feet so they need room to grow to get the usual weeping shape.
They are not messy except for the leaf drop in the Fall. and usually do not send out sprout from the roots.
I would ask the nursery about their return policy. Since they tree is damaged it might not live and if so can you get your money back. Dig the new hole about twice the size of the rootball and fill with good top soil or potting soil, Remove the burlap and wire from the root before you plant it and plant it so the top of the rootball is at ground level. Mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not pile up on the trunk. This will help hold moisture around the roots. Do not fertilize for the first year.