Weeping Willow in November: monthly care

Weeping willows thrive in full sun and need a position with plenty of space—mature trees reach 10–20 metres tall with a spread of 8–15 metres, so plant at least 10 metres from buildings, boundaries, and other large trees. They are ideal for waterside planting near ponds, streams, or damp areas of the garden, as their roots naturally seek moisture. Avoid planting near drains, sewers, or foundations; willow roots are vigorous and can cause structural damage. Choose a site with clay, loam, or peat-based soil. Weeping willows tolerate heavy, waterlogged ground better than most trees, but they also grow well in any moisture-retentive soil. Avoid dry, sandy, or shallow soils. Plant bare-root or container-grown trees in October, November, or March when the ground is workable and not frozen. Autumn planting is preferable, giving roots time to establish before spring growth. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. Break up compacted soil at the base and sides. Position the tree so the soil mark on the stem sits level with the surrounding ground—planting too deep can lead to rot. Backfill with the excavated soil, firming gently as you go to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly immediately after planting, even if the soil is already damp. Stake young trees with a single angled stake driven in at 45 degrees, using a flexible tree tie to allow some movement, which encourages strong root development. Apply a 7–10 cm layer of organic mulch (well-rotted compost or bark) around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk. Water generously during the first growing season to help establishment.

Prune weeping willows during their dormant period from November through to February. Winter pruning minimises sap bleeding and reduces stress on the tree, and you can see the branch structure clearly without foliage. Avoid pruning in late winter or early spring when sap is rising, as willows bleed heavily and this can weaken the tree. Weeping willows grow vigorously and benefit from regular pruning to maintain shape, remove damaged wood, and control size if necessary. Use sharp bypass secateurs for stems up to 2 cm, loppers for branches up to 5 cm, and a pruning saw for anything larger. Disinfect blades between cuts if you suspect disease. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged wood back to healthy tissue or a main branch. Cut out crossing or rubbing branches that may cause wounds. Thin crowded areas to improve air circulation, which helps prevent fungal problems. If the canopy has become too dense or low-hanging, selectively remove entire weeping branches back to the main framework, rather than shortening many tips, which leads to unsightly regrowth. Weeping willows tolerate hard pruning and can be pollarded or coppiced if they outgrow their space, though this is drastic and changes the tree's natural form. For routine maintenance, aim to remove no more than one-quarter of the canopy in a single season. Young trees need formative pruning to establish a clear central leader and balanced framework. Always cut just above a bud or back to a junction; avoid leaving stubs, which invite decay.