Growing Pussy Willow tree or shrub - Ask Extension
Is it safe to plant a Pussy Willow shrub or tree in Gaylord, MI, Otsego county? Which is more likely to survive the harsh winters?
Knowledgebase
Growing Pussy Willow tree or shrub #864581
Asked April 15, 2024, 11:59 AM EDT
Is it safe to plant a Pussy Willow shrub or tree in Gaylord, MI, Otsego county? Which is more likely to survive the harsh winters?
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
The American Pussy Willow (Salix discolor) is a valuable native plant that can thrive in Michigan. Here are some key points about growing this shrub:
Hardiness Zone: The American Pussy Willow is hardy in zones 4-8. Michigan falls within this range, making it suitable for cultivation in the state.
Soil Preference: It prefers to grow in damp soil and develops deep taproots that efficiently absorb water. Consider planting it in areas that tend to stay wet after heavy rain or include it in a rain garden. More information is at this link:
https://extension.psu.edu/pussy-willow-a-valuable-native-plant
Acidic Soil: Unlike many Pennsylvania native plants, the American Pussy Willow does not require acidic soil. This adaptability makes it easier to grow in various soil types.
Dioecious Plant: The American Pussy Willow is dioecious, meaning that male and female parts are found on different plants. Male catkins are larger and showier, while female catkins are smaller and greenish.
Early Bloomer: The pussy willow blooms early in spring, providing a valuable food source for wildlife. Its catkins offer one of the first-of-the-season nectar sources for pollinators, attracting insects like bees and butterflies. These insects, in turn, become a protein-rich meal for songbirds such as chickadees and goldfinches.
Propagation: You can propagate pussy willows from cuttings. Simply stick a twig into damp soil, and it will take root and leaf out. If you’d like to save the catkins for spring decorations, cut them before pollen appears and let them dry—they’ll stay nice for years. More information at this link:
https://extension.psu.edu/pussy-willow-a-valuable-native-plant
Remember to appreciate the ecological benefits of this native plant while enjoying its fuzzy catkins!
I hope this helps!
The American Pussy Willow (Salix discolor) is a valuable native plant that can thrive in Michigan. Here are some key points about growing this shrub:
Hardiness Zone: The American Pussy Willow is hardy in zones 4-8. Michigan falls within this range, making it suitable for cultivation in the state.
Soil Preference: It prefers to grow in damp soil and develops deep taproots that efficiently absorb water. Consider planting it in areas that tend to stay wet after heavy rain or include it in a rain garden. More information is at this link:
https://extension.psu.edu/pussy-willow-a-valuable-native-plant
Acidic Soil: Unlike many Pennsylvania native plants, the American Pussy Willow does not require acidic soil. This adaptability makes it easier to grow in various soil types.
Dioecious Plant: The American Pussy Willow is dioecious, meaning that male and female parts are found on different plants. Male catkins are larger and showier, while female catkins are smaller and greenish.
Early Bloomer: The pussy willow blooms early in spring, providing a valuable food source for wildlife. Its catkins offer one of the first-of-the-season nectar sources for pollinators, attracting insects like bees and butterflies. These insects, in turn, become a protein-rich meal for songbirds such as chickadees and goldfinches.
Propagation: You can propagate pussy willows from cuttings. Simply stick a twig into damp soil, and it will take root and leaf out. If you’d like to save the catkins for spring decorations, cut them before pollen appears and let them dry—they’ll stay nice for years. More information at this link:
https://extension.psu.edu/pussy-willow-a-valuable-native-plant
Remember to appreciate the ecological benefits of this native plant while enjoying its fuzzy catkins!
I hope this helps!
