Salix alba 110 CM Y4-110-07

Planting & Positioning

• Salix alba (White Willow) braided canes without roots are supplied dormant and rootless, meaning they must be planted promptly to encourage successful rooting.

• Choose a bright, open position in full sun for best growth. While willow tolerates partial shade, strong sunlight promotes vigorous rooting and healthier foliage.

• This variety thrives in moist soil and is particularly well suited to areas near ponds, streams, or low-lying ground that retains moisture.

• Avoid dry, sandy soils unless you can provide consistent watering during establishment.

• Before planting, soak the base of the canes in a bucket of water for 24–48 hours to help rehydrate the wood and stimulate root formation.

• Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of at least 30–40 cm and incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.

• Insert the canes at least 20–30 cm into the soil to ensure stability and encourage strong root development.

• Firm the soil well around the base to remove air pockets.

• Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

• If planting multiple canes together as a feature or screen, ensure they are evenly spaced and aligned to maintain the braided structure.

Salix alba is fast growing and adaptable, but consistent moisture during the first growing season is critical for successful establishment. Once rooted, it becomes extremely hardy and resilient.

Watering, Feeding & Ongoing Care

• Keep the soil consistently moist during the first year after planting. Rootless canes depend entirely on soil moisture to initiate new root growth.

• In dry spells, water deeply at least once or twice weekly, ensuring moisture penetrates the soil rather than just wetting the surface.

• Mulch around the base with bark or compost to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch slightly away from the stems to prevent rot.

• Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, especially in spring and early summer when new growth is forming.

• Once established, Salix alba tolerates wet conditions very well and can even withstand occasional waterlogging.

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to encourage strong foliage and stem growth.

• Alternatively, top dress annually with compost or well-rotted manure to maintain soil fertility.

• Remove any weeds around the base, as they compete for moisture and nutrients.

Braided willow canes will begin to leaf out once temperatures rise in spring. If buds fail to break after several weeks, check that the soil remains moist and that the canes were planted deeply enough. Patience is important, as rooting may take time depending on conditions.

Pruning, Maintenance & Long-Term Growth

• Salix alba is a vigorous grower and responds very well to pruning.

• Lightly trim any damaged or weak growth once new shoots have established.

• To maintain a tidy braided form, remove unwanted side shoots along the lower stems.

• If grown as a structural feature or living sculpture, prune annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

• Regular pruning encourages fresh, colourful stems and helps control overall size.

• Willow can be coppiced (cut back hard) if required, as it regenerates readily from the base.

• Monitor ties or supports if used, loosening them as the stems thicken to prevent constriction.

• Inspect periodically for pests such as aphids or caterpillars; infestations are usually minor and can be treated with appropriate horticultural controls if necessary.

• Ensure adequate spacing from buildings or paving, as mature willow roots are vigorous and seek moisture.

When properly planted and cared for, Salix alba braided canes will quickly root, leaf out, and develop into an attractive living feature. Their graceful foliage, fast growth, and adaptability make them ideal for gardens seeking height, movement, and a natural focal point

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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