Pruning A Miniature Weeping Willow.

[Traci66]

Recently relatives from Canada told me that I should cut my willow tree right back to near the crown, husband thinks this is excessive, please can anyone tell me if they are right.

[janbee]

I've had a willow for years and in fact have just planted 3 more. They can grow to about 13-14m, maybe even more. I'm told I should cut them back otherwise they will get out of control. I haven't noticed that yet but I think pruning them is the right thing to do. Don't know how far to cut back though. As you say, the crown seems excessive.

[janbee]

Actually traci, I've just read your post again. Mine are Salix Caprea (goat willows) so obviously a bit different to your miniature willow. Have you checked online for info? That's where I usually look for info on this type of thing. Good luck xx

[murraymints]

Take them back to the second knobbly bit !

[murraymints]

just ahead of it

[andy-hughes]

We had a professional pollarder to attend to our willow, and he absolutely scalped it - there was barely anything left except the trunk and a few bits sticking out, but of course, it grew back lush as ever.

Get a professional in, and see how he does it, and then you can maybe have a go next year.

[woofgang]

If its a miniature willow and not outgrowing its space, then just cut off the bits that are dead if any and to keep in in a shape that you like.

[Traci66]

Thank you all for your answers, much appreciated.

[Chipchopper]

If your willow has outgrown its space, it can be cut back excessively without any worries.
Many old pollarded willows are managed in this way and have for centuries.
Best done in the winter when the sap is down.

[Chipchopper]

Sorry Traci, I missed the 'MINIATURE' bit.

If its a Kilmarnock willow, then it shouldn't be pruned beyond the graft point, usually where the crown breaks from the central stem.