Materials Used to Plant Weeping Willow Trees

Weeping willows' sweeping branches add grace to any landscape.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Weeping willows have been immortalized in all forms of art, and are renowned for their graceful, sweeping branches. Considered a perennial tree, they shed their leaves in late fall and are usually the first to bloom in spring. Easy to plant and grow, weeping willows are a picturesque addition to any landscape.

Soil

Weeping willow trees will tolerate most types of soils and can adapt to all except the most drought-prone areas. To plant a weeping willow, the soil should be loose and the hole should be two to three times the size of the root ball.

Weeping willows love water. Found often on the banks of rivers and wetlands, they will absorb water from low spots where it collects after heavy rain. Keep this in mind when planting. Just as it will absorb water from a swampy area, it will also tend to extend it's roots into wells, sewer and septic systems. After you dig the hole for the weeping willow, fill it with water, then carefully place the root system of the tree in the hole. As you fill the hole in with dirt, the water will help to settle the earth around the roots and prevent air pockets.

While the willow is a fast growing tree, it is relatively short lived. Add 10-10-10 organic fertilizer into the soil and mix well before planting to help the tree establish and set its roots quickly. Once planted, no other fertilizer should be needed.