Overview
Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi (Britt. & Shafer) Schneid., also known as Arizona willow or Toumey's willow, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Salicaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico and is commonly found in riparian areas, streamsides, and along ponds, lakes, and ditches.
Appearance
The Arizona willow typically grows to a height of 6-18 feet and a width of 6-12 feet. It has a multi-stemmed, spreading growth habit and produces thin, flexible branches that may droop or arch. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and 1-4 inches long, with a slightly serrated edge and a pointed tip. The upper surface of the leaves is shiny and dark green, while the underside is paler and smoother. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by small and elongated fruit capsules.
Uses
The Arizona willow has several uses, including erosion control, streambank stabilization, and wildlife habitat. Its dense root system makes it effective in preventing soil erosion and allowing for water infiltration, while its leaves provide food for herbivores such as deer, elk, and rabbits. Additionally, the branches and leaves of the Arizona willow have been used by Indigenous cultures in basket weaving and as a natural source of aspirin, due to its high concentration of salicylic acid.
Cultivation
The Arizona willow is commonly propagated through cuttings and thrives in full sun to part shade. It prefers moist and well-draining soils and can tolerate flooding and periodic droughts. The plant can be pruned to maintain its desired shape and size, and its flexible branches make it suitable for shaping into weaving materials. It is relatively low maintenance and does not typically require fertilization or excessive watering.
Growth conditions for Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi
Light: Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi is adapted to grow well in full sunlight or partial shade. However, it requires sufficient amount of light to initiate the photosynthesis process and to produce healthy foliage.
Temperature: Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi is a hardy plant adaptable to a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in places with an annual average temperature of 4°C - 27°C (39°F- 81°F). However, the best temperature range for its growth is between 16°C - 24°C (60°F - 75°F).
Soil: Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 - 7.5). It also requires moderate soil moisture levels to promote healthy growth. Excess water may cause root rot, while in extremely dry soils, the plant may wilt.
Fertilizer: Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi responds well to regular fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season using a well-balanced fertilizer. However, it is essential to ensure the application is not too heavy as it may cause damage to the roots.
Pruning: Pruning Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi is necessary to promote healthy growth, retain shape, and prevent diseases. It is recommended to prune during the dormant season to minimize chances of injury and to achieve the desired shape quickly. Pruned branches can be used for propagation.
Cultivation Method
Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi (Britt. & Shafer) Schneid. should be planted in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a site that receives full sun to partial shade. Planting should be done in spring or fall when the soil is neither too cold nor too hot. It is important to avoid planting near buildings or structures because the roots can cause damage.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi (Britt. & Shafer) Schneid. depend on various factors such as soil type, temperature, humidity, and rainfall. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it is important to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Mulching the soil around the plant helps to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Fertilization
Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi (Britt. & Shafer) Schneid. benefits from regular fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring just before the growing season begins is recommended. Organic fertilizers are preferred, as they provide a slow and steady release of nutrients. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to weak and leggy growth.
Pruning
Pruning of Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi (Britt. & Shafer) Schneid. should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The plant should be pruned to maintain its desired shape and size. Regular pruning helps to promote vigorous growth and flowering. Any diseased or damaged branches should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of infection. It is important to use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi
Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi (Britt. & Shafer) Schneid. is a species of willow tree that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 feet tall. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods including seed propagation, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds of Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi can be sown in fall or early spring. The seeds require stratification, which means exposing them to cold temperatures for a period of time to mimic winter conditions. This can be done by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with damp sand or peat moss and storing them in a refrigerator for 30-60 days. After stratification, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they germinate.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi. Hardwood cuttings can be taken in late fall or early winter and placed in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid location until they root and can be transplanted into larger containers or outdoors.
Propagation through layering
Propagation through layering involves bending a low-growing branch of Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi to the ground and burying a portion of the branch with soil. The branch will develop roots where it touches the soil, and can eventually be severed from the parent plant and grown on its own. This method can be done in late fall or early spring.
Disease and Pest Management for Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi
Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi, commonly known as Toumey's Willow, is a plant that is commonly found in riparian zones or along stream banks. This species is an important part of ecosystems where it provides habitat for numerous animals, including birds and beavers. However, like any plant, Toumey's Willow is vulnerable to a variety of pests and diseases that can reduce its ability to thrive and reproduce. Here are some common diseases and pests affecting the plant along with ways to manage them.
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases can cause small to large necrotic areas on the leaves, leading to defoliation, loss of growth, and even death of the entire plant. The fungi commonly responsible for leaf spot diseases are Cercospora, Alternaria, and Phoma. Prevention involves removing infected plant debris and pruning out dead and infected plant material. Fungicides can also be applied to control the disease.
Willow Beetles
Willow beetles are notorious pests for Salix species. The adult beetles chew on the foliage, while the larvae burrow in the stem and roots. The larvae cause more damage than the adults causing stem and root girdling, which reduces the flow of water and nutrients. To control willow beetles, remove all plant debris in the fall season, which will eliminate their overwintering habitat. Horticultural oils and insecticidal sprays can be used to control both larvae and adult beetles.
Blister Beetles
Blister beetles can completely defoliate a small plant in a matter of days. The larvae of blister beetles feed on vegetation, while the adults feed on the foliage. To control blister beetles, remove all plant debris in the fall season, which will eliminate their overwintering habitat. Horticultural oils and insecticidal sprays can be used to control both larvae and adult beetles. Contact a local nursery for the best chemical control methods.
Conclusion
To keep Salix bonplandiana Kunth var. toumeyi healthy, it is essential to manage pests and diseases appropriately. Preventive measures such as removing infected plant debris and pruning out dead and infected plant material can go a long way in controlling pests and diseases. Chemical control methods such as horticultural oils and insecticidal sprays can be used for severe pest and disease outbreaks. Seek professional advice in selecting and applying chemicals to prevent further damage to your plants.
