The Graceful Golden Weeping Willow Tree and Its Rapid Growth Rate

The golden weeping willow (Salix alba ‘Tristis’) is a stunning ornamental tree prized for its graceful, cascading branches and brilliant yellow twigs. When provided with ideal growing conditions, this beautiful willow can skyrocket upwards at over 3 feet per year. Understanding the quick development of the golden weeping willow will help you properly care for it and highlight its elegantly weeping form.

In this article, we will uncover the rapid growth rate of the golden weeping willow tree. We will look at:

• Growing conditions that fuel its fast growth
• Typical height increases each season
• Caring for fast-growing willow trees
• Advantages and disadvantages of its quick growth

The golden weeping willow thrives in moist, fertile soils and full sun exposure Specific factors that boost its quick vertical growth include

• Rich, consistently moist soil
• Ample water availability
• Full sun for at least 6 hours daily
• Higher humidity
• Warm environments
• Good nutrient availability
• Genetic propensity for fast growth

When provided these ideal conditions, the golden weeping willow lives up to its reputation as a fast grower.

Typical Height Increases Each Season

The golden weeping willow grows at a rapid rate, adding anywhere from 3 to 10 feet in height each year when given optimal conditions.

Here are some guidelines for average size increases

• Year 1: Grows 3 feet or more from a young nursery tree. Establishes quickly after planting.

• Year 2: Adds another 3 to 5 feet in height. Sends up thick, vertical shoots.

• Year 3: Gains 4 to 6 feet as whorled side branches begin to droop downward.

• Year 4: Develops weeping form, with 5 to 8 feet of new growth annually.

• Year 5+: Matures around 75 feet tall, growing up to 10 feet per year before tapering off.

These impressive growth rates ensure this large tree reaches mature heights of 75 to 100 feet tall within just 10 to 15 years after planting.

Caring For Fast-Growing Willow Trees

The golden weeping willow’s stunning form comes with special care requirements:

• Water regularly – Provide consistent moisture, especially during droughts. Willows need damp soil.

• Fertilize lightly – Avoid over-fertilizing, which causes fast, weak growth prone to breakage.

• Prune yearly – Remove upright shoots and interior branches to maintain its weeping shape.

• Protect from wind – Stake young trees and provide windscreens to prevent branch damage. Their flexible wood is vulnerable.

• Monitor for pests/diseases – Prevent defoliation and dieback that can slow growth. Treat any issues promptly.

• Remove suckers – Prune out vertical shoots from the root system to avoid dense thickets of new growth.

With proper siting, care, and pruning, the golden weeping willow’s rapid growth rate can be managed. Its striking form and dazzling color make this quick-growing tree a stunning focal point in larger landscapes.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fast Growth

The golden weeping willow’s rapid growth rate has both good and bad points:

Advantages:

• Provides quick shade and privacy screening. Establishes to full size faster.

• Graceful, cascading form develops quickly. Has ornamental appeal sooner.

• Can be useful for fast-growing privacy screens or windbreaks. Rapidly reaches mature heights.

Disadvantages:

• Brittle, flexible branches are prone to wind and storm damage when young.

• Shallow root system can invade sewers and pipes. Requires monitoring.

• Needs frequent pruning to maintain its weeping form. Quick growth needs management.

• Drops abundant leaf litter, twigs, and branches. Requires cleanup.

• Susceptible to pests like aphids. Rapid growth makes more vulnerable.

Overall, the golden weeping willow’s stunning form and vibrant color make embracing its lively growth rate worthwhile. With proper care to accommodate its speedy gains in height, it can become a graceful, flowing centerpiece tree.

Conclusion

The golden weeping willow is a fast-growing ornamental tree that can shoot up by over 3 feet per year when given ideal conditions. This rapid growth rate allows it to quickly provide shade, privacy screening, and a beautiful focal point. However, it also requires vigilant watering, pruning, and maintenance to look its best. Taking steps to care for its quick growth will allow you to highlight the graceful, cascading form that makes golden weeping willows so captivating.