Water

• During the first year of planting, keep the willow supplied with plenty of water to ensure the trees roots become established. This is especially true during a dry spell and hot summer months. Overwatering in the beginning will cause drooping leaves; however, this is also a sign of not enough water. If drooping leaves persist, check the soil to determine if it's too wet or too dry. Willows do well in wet areas and near ponds.
  
  

Planting

• Select a location with full sun or partial shade. Dig the hole twice the size of the root system; this will allow young roots adequate room for growth. After setting the willow into the hole and slightly arranging the roots, fill the hole with dirt. Be sure to avoid leaving pockets of air around the roots, as this will cause the roots to dry out. Spreading mulch around the base will help to keep the moisture in the soil.
  
  

Fertilizer and Soil

• Spread an organic fertilizer high in nitrogen around the soil, but not directly on the tree. Using a fertilizer with a content of 10-10-10, or 20-20-20 will work well. Willows will grow in acidic or alkaline soil. Once established in its location, the willow is drought tolerant and will grow in wet or clay soil.
  
  

Mature Tree

• A mature willow grows to a height of 40 feet and 35 feet wide and is rounded in shape. The willow is not the best tree for a small area because of its large spread. The tree can grow as much as 8 feet in a single year. A small yard will quickly be overpowered by a willow.
  
  

Problems

• The willow is a messy tree due to the constant shedding of leaves and twigs. It has problems with blights, mildew, spotty leaves and cankers. Aphids, caterpillars and other insects are also attracted to the willow. Homeowners that plant too close to sewers and drains may experience problems as the roots invade them.