Origin
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso is a variety of willow tree that is native to North America. It can be found in areas with moist soils, including wetlands, along streams, and in floodplains.
Common Names
This variety of willow tree goes by several common names, including Bebb's willow, long-beaked willow, and gray willow.
Uses
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso has a few different uses. Historically, indigenous groups used the bark and leaves to create various medicinal remedies, such as a pain reliever and fever reducer. Additionally, the light, flexible wood of the tree was utilized in basket weaving and fishing nets. Nowadays, this variety of willow is often used for erosion control, thanks to its strong root system that helps stabilize soil and prevent landslides.
General Appearance
Bebb's willow can grow up to 30 feet tall, with a spread of roughly 15 feet. It has slender branches that are often slender, flexible, and droop down towards the ground. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 6 inches in length and 1 inch in width, and are a grayish-green color. The catkins that bloom in spring can range in color from yellow to green, and the bark is a light gray-brown, making it easy to spot in the wild.
Light Requirements
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso requires full sun for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but may not grow as vigorously or produce as many flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers cooler climates. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 4°C - 24°C (39°F - 75°F). Extreme heat and cold can cause stress and impact growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. However, the soil should be nutrient-rich to support optimal growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso, commonly known as Barclay willow, is a hardy perennial plant that can adapt to various soil and environmental conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in all types of soil with good drainage. The plant can be propagated from cuttings, but it is best to start with seeds.
Watering Needs
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso requires regular watering during germination and establishment. Once the plant is established, water it deeply and infrequently. Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. A good indication of when to water is when the soil is dry to the touch at a depth of two to three inches.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso, but it can help boost growth and health. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in early spring, before new growth appears, and again in mid-summer.
Pruning
Prune Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso to maintain its size and shape and to remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Cut back the previous year's growth to the desired height, leaving two to three buds per stem. Avoid cutting into old wood, as this can lead to dieback.
Propagation of Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso, commonly known as Barclay's willow, can be propagated either sexually through seed germination or asexually through vegetative propagation.
Sexual propagation
Propagation of Barclay's willow through seed germination involves the collection of ripe seeds in mid to late summer. The seeds must be sown immediately after collection as they have a short viability period. After collection, the seeds should be cleaned and then placed in cold stratification for 60 to 120 days. This process involves keeping the seeds moist and cool, simulating the winter season, which induces dormancy breakage and the subsequent initiation of the germination process. The seeds should then be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist. Germination occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. Seedlings should be transplanted into larger pots or containers when they outgrow their initial container and are large enough to handle.
Asexual propagation
Propagation of Barclay's willow through vegetative means is highly successful and preferred by most horticulturists. The plant can be propagated through both softwood and hardwood stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer, while hardwood cuttings are best taken in late autumn before the first freeze. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and 1 cm in diameter, and they should be taken from healthy, vigorously growing young or mature shoots. The cuttings should then be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a soil mix that is well-draining and moist. Once the cuttings successfully root, they can be transplanted into larger containers or planted outside in a suitable location.
Disease and Pest Management for Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso
Salix barclayi Anderss. var. commutata (Bebb) L. Kelso, commonly known as Barclay willow, is a species of willow trees that is native to North America. As with any plant species, Barclay willow is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can negatively affect its health and growth. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Cytospora Canker: This fungal disease is common in Barclay willow trees and manifests as sunken cankers on the tree's bark. The infected bark may also be discolored, cracked, or oozing sap. To manage cytospora canker, prune and dispose of the affected branches or limbs. Avoid creating wounds during pruning as it can further spread the disease. You can also treat the infection with a fungicide application, but it is best to consult with a professional before using any chemical treatments.
Willow Scab: This fungal disease affects the leaves and bark of the Barclay willow, and it causes spots or blotches on the leaves, fruit, and buds. Infected leaves can wilt or curl, leading to defoliation and a stunted tree. To manage willow scab, prune and dispose of any infected branches or twigs, and avoid overhead watering or damp foliage. You can also apply fungicide spraying to your tree in the spring, before bud break, and in the fall after leaf fall to prevent spreading and reinfection.
Pests
Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the leaves of the Barclay willow tree causing them to curl, yellow, and stunt their growth. Control aphids with applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Encouraging the presence of beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help manage aphid populations.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are a common pest that can infest Barclay willow trees. The presence of spider mites is typically indicated by discolored leaves that may look dirty or silvery in color and may have webbing. Use a spray of insecticidal soap or neem oil regularly to control the infestation. Pruning the infected leaves or branches and disposing of them can also help control the mites.
Overall, practicing good cultural management practices such as providing proper irrigation, pruning, and selecting healthy planting material can help prevent disease and pests from taking a toll on a Barclay willow tree. Regular inspection of the trees for signs of disease and pest infestation can also help you catch the problem early before it becomes difficult to manage.
