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Grey willow

Salix atrocinerea · Salicaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around grey willow and prepare for winter.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Blooming
Spring (March-April)
Adult size
8 to 12 m tall × 6 to 8 m wide
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
-20 °C, very hardy
Origin
Northern and central Europe
Soil type
Moist to very moist, tolerates acidic soils
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade

Care

Watering

The Grey Willow loves moisture and thrives near watercourses or in regularly wet soils. Water generously during the growing period, especially in the first three years. Once established, it tolerates wet periods and appreciates consistent humidity; however, avoid prolonged standing water.

Exposure

Place this willow in full sun for optimal growth, where it will branch generously. It tolerates partial shade well and adapts to partially shaded situations, although the silhouette will be less dense. Protect it from strong winds that can break the flexible branches.

Soil

Prefer moist to very moist soil, slightly acidic or neutral. This willow tolerates poor soils and even peat-based soils. Perfect drainage is not necessary; it thrives in riparian zones or in wet clay soil. Improving the soil by adding compost in the first winter speeds up rooting.

Pruning and cutting

Prune in winter (December-February) to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. The Grey Willow accepts pruning well and can be rejuvenated by severe cutting every 3 to 5 years. Avoid pruning in late summer to allow the wood time to mature before the cold sets in.

Fertilizing

This fast-growing tree requires little nutritional maintenance in naturally moist soil. An application of well-decomposed compost in autumn is more than sufficient. In impoverished soil, a balanced fertilizer in spring can support vitality; avoid excess nitrogen which would favor growth at the expense of wood strength.

Diseases and pests

The Grey Willow is generally robust but can be affected by willow rust or canker in case of prolonged standing moisture. Watch for borers and certain moths that tunnel into the wood. Good air circulation and removal of weak branches reduce risks; no systematic chemical treatment is required.

Did you know?

The Grey Willow is an excellent ecological ally: its spring catkins nourish bees and pollinating insects early in the season as winter ends, while its powerful root system stabilizes riverbanks and naturally filters water. In Scandinavia and Northern Europe, this willow has long provided flexible wood for basketry and woven osier.

Where to buy it

Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.