Pussy Willow - French

Handy Gardening Secrets shrubs  


Pussy Willow - French

As with most willows, they do best when given lots of water. For early bloom, cut branches of pussy willows may be brought in and set in a water filled vase in a sunny window anytime after the middle of January. You can even cut the tree back to a six inch stump every 2-3 years (severe pruning results in the longer stems and larger catkins). The French Pussy Willow, Salix discolor, grows well in almost any soil but it is a good idea to supplement it with peat moss, leaf mold or compost. Prune the lowest branches back to the trunk, and prune for shape. They require full sun to thrive, but will survive in the shade as well. Flowers form on the previous season's growth, not on new growth so do not prune until the flowers have faded. The catkins will develop and make a nice display for a considerable time. Although they can be allowed to grow unpruned, the plant will benefit from regular pruning after blooming. ... more information

 

Sumac - Flameleaf Leaves have a winged axis and turn flame red to dark purple in the fall, hence the common name. The Flameleaf Sumac, Rhus copallina, is a shrub or occasionally a small tree. When left alone it will often form thickets. White-tailed deer also use it as a browse.

Pussy Willow - French