Introduction
Pussy willow is a type of deciduous shrub or small tree, native to North America and Asia. It has long been cultivated for its furry silvery-gray catkins, which are borne in early spring before the leaves appear. Propagating pussy willow can be done by seed or cuttings and this article will provide detailed instructions on how to do it successfully.
Propagation from Seed
The most reliable way of propagating pussy willows is from seed. The best time to sow the seeds outdoors is late fall or early winter when temperatures are cooler; this allows them to naturally stratify in the soil over winter and then germinate with warmth in springtime. If you want quicker results, cold stratification can be simulated at home by soaking the seeds overnight in lukewarm water before sowing them directly into moistened potting soil about 1/4 inch deep (1 cm). Keep moist but not soggy until they sprout after which watering should be reduced slightly so that the top few inches of soil remain dry between waterings.
When planting out young plants into their permanent positions outside ensure they have good drainage and mulch heavily around their bases. Once established they need little attention other than occasional pruning if desired (best carried out after flowering). Pussywillows also make great container specimens as well – use a lightweight potting mix amended with some composted manure or slow release fertilizer pellets suitable for woody plants such as oaks and maples.
Propagation from Cuttings
If you’re feeling adventurous you can try propagating pussy willow from softwood cuttings taken during summertime when new growth is active on established bushes – select shoots about 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) long with healthy tips that haven’t yet flowered, cutting just below a leaf node using sharp scissors sterilized with rubbing alcohol or diluted bleach solution beforehand to reduce risk of infection from pathogens present in contaminated soil particles etc… Dip each end briefly into rooting hormone powder containing indolebutyric acid before planting horizontally about 1/4 inch deep (1 cm) into dampened perlite mixed 2:3:5 coir peat : sand : vermiculite respectively; cover lightly with plastic wrap secured over stakes inserted either side near edges of tray/pot used then place somewhere warm away from direct sun while keeping evenly moist but not wet so roots don’t rot due poor aeration caused by standing waterlogged soils…within 6 weeks primary root development should occur indicating successful propagation!
Conclusion
In conclusion, propagating pussywillow is relatively easy if following above steps outlined carefully – whether via seed indoors prior to transplanting outside later once weather permits or via softwood stem tip cuttings taking during summer months too! Regardless both methods require consistent moisture levels provided without going overboard lest cause suffocation leading towards fungal infections resulting in plant death unfortunately…otherwise these beautiful ornamental trees should reward grower’s efforts handsomely come springtime next year onwards subsequently!
