Introduction:
Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss. is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is a subspecies of the Salix arguta or the sandbar willow. The plant is native to the North American continent, specifically in regions including Alaska, Yukon, and Northwest territories in Canada and in the states of Alaska, Oregon, and Washington in the US.Common Names:
Salix arguta var. hirtisquama is commonly known as the hairy scale willow, hairy willow, and the feltleaf willow.Uses:
The Salix arguta var. hirtisquama, like other willow species, is known for its medicinal benefits. The plant contains salicin, a natural chemical that possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiplatelet properties. Salicin is a natural precursor of aspirin, which makes the Salix arguta var. hirtisquama an important source of natural pain relief. Indigenous people also use the plant for making basketry, mats, and other woven objects because of its pliability and toughness.General Appearance:
The Salix arguta var. hirtisquama can grow up to 3 meters (10ft) tall and can spread up to 4 meters (13ft) wide. The leaves are broadly elliptic to oblong, around 3 to 7cm long and 1.5 to 3cm wide. The leaves are dark green with a hairy underside. The bark of the plant is grayish-brown with deep fissures, and the twigs have rusty hairs. The plant produces small, cylindrical catkins that measure approximately 2.5cm long before leafing in the spring.Growth Conditions for Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss.
Light Requirements: Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss. is a deciduous shrub that prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but a lack of sunlight may reduce flowering and overall growth rate.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is native to Japan and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, should be avoided as they may damage the plant.
Soil Requirements: Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss. prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy or clay soils, but prefers soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.
Water Requirements: Adequate and consistent moisture is crucial for the growth of this plant. It requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in dry or hot weather. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as it may develop root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements: This plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. However, excessive fertilizer can lead to excessive growth and a decrease in flowering.
Pruning Requirements: Regular pruning is not necessary for this plant, but it can benefit from occasional trimming to control its shape and size. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears.
Cultivation
Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss. is a hardy plant, meaning it can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can grow in areas with full sunlight or partial shade. It is recommended to plant the Salix arguta in early spring or late summer.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. It is recommended to water the Salix arguta two to three times a week, providing enough water to saturate the root ball. However, avoid overwatering the plant as it may cause root rot.
Fertilization
The Salix arguta does not require high levels of fertilization. Too much fertilizer can cause the plant to produce more leaves than its stem can support, leading to weak stems. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a year in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer.
Pruning
The Salix arguta needs regular pruning or trimming to keep its size in check and promote new growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches. Cut back older branches to lateral shoots, just above a bud. Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant in a single year.
Propagation of Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss.
There are several propagation methods suitable for the plant Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss. Below are some of the most common:
Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings involve taking a 4-6 inch cutting from new growth on the plant. Cut just below a node and remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and place it in a pot of well-draining soil or a rooting medium. Keep the cutting moist and in a warm, bright location until new growth appears.
Hardwood Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings involve taking a 8-12 inch cutting from the previous season's growth on the plant. Cut just below a node and remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and place it in a pot of well-draining soil or a rooting medium. Keep the cutting moist and in a cool, bright location until new growth appears.
Division
Division involves separating a mature plant into two or more sections. Carefully dig up the plant and use a sharp, clean knife or garden spade to divide the root ball. Each section should have some roots and foliage. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Seeds
Seeds can be collected from the plant and sown in a pot of well-draining soil or directly in the ground. Seeds should be planted in the fall and covered lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and in a cool, bright location until sprouts appear in the spring.
Disease and Pest Management for Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss.
Salix arguta Anderss. var. hirtisquama (Anderss.) Anderss., commonly known as the Hairyfruit Willow or Harvest Willow, is a flowering plant from the Salicaceae family. While generally resilient, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and overall health. Here are some common problems the plant may encounter, along with corresponding management strategies:
Diseases
Canker - Canker is caused by fungal infections and appears as dead patches on the bark. Management strategies include pruning back affected areas, and removing dead and diseased branches promptly. When pruning, make sure to cut 6-8 inches below the infected portion. Ensure that the plant receives proper nutrition to aid in recovery.
Rust - Rust is a fungal disease that presents itself in the form of yellow-orange spots on the leaves. To manage rust, ensure good drainage around the roots and remove all fallen leaves to prevent reinfection. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can increase susceptibility to rust.
Pests
Aphids - Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing damage to the leaves and other tissues. To control aphids, spray the plant with a low-toxicity insecticide. Ladybugs, lacewings, and other natural predators can also be effective in controlling aphid populations.
Borers - Borers lay their eggs in the bark, and their larvae can cause significant damage by tunneling into the wood. To manage borers, use insecticides with long-lasting residual effects, as this will prevent reinfestation. Ensure that the plant is receiving adequate water and nutrients to promote healthy growth.
Leaf Beetles - Leaf beetles feed on the foliage of the plant, resulting in a loss of leaves and lowered photosynthetic activity. To manage leaf beetles, use insecticides with systemic activity that can be taken up by the plant. Cultivating healthy soil can also make the plant more resistant to the beetles.
In general, maintaining plant health and providing good growing conditions will help prevent disease and pest problems. Regular pruning, weeding, and proper watering and fertilization practices can go a long way toward ensuring the Hairyfruit Willow remains healthy and strong.
