Overview:
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. is a member of the willow family and is commonly known by a variety of names, including Drummond's willow, dune willow, sandbar willow and subalpine willow. This plant is native to North America and can be found growing in a range of habitats, from subalpine meadows to lower elevation forests.
Appearance:
The subalpine willow is a deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 6 meters in height. The leaves are narrow, elongated and have a shiny green upper surface and a paler underside. The plant is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. The male flowers are yellow and cylindrical, while the female flowers are green and have a more spherical shape. The subalpine willow produces small, white, woolly seeds that are very light and can easily be dispersed by the wind.
Uses:
The subalpine willow has a range of uses including in native plant restoration projects, as well as in traditional medicine. The bark of the plant has been used for centuries as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It has also been used to treat various ailments such as fever, arthritis, and skin conditions. In addition, the plant has been used for basket-weaving due to its flexible branches, and its leaves are a valuable food source for grazing animals such as elk and deer.
Growth Conditions of Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr.
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. or Dwarf Willow is a small shrub that grows up to 30 cm tall. The plant is native to North America and typically grows in alpine and subalpine regions. The following are the typical growth conditions for Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr.
Light Requirements
Being a low-lying shrub, Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. prefers to grow in partial to full sun. In its natural habitat, the plant typically grows in areas where the tree canopy is sparse or absent. The plant requires at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. is a cold-tolerant plant and can survive in temperatures as low as -40°C. However, the plant does not tolerate high temperatures and prefers cooler environments. The optimal temperature range for the plant growth is 10-20°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. In its natural habitat, the plant typically grows in areas with poorly developed soils. However, the soil should be moist and not waterlogged. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.0-7.0).
Cultivation
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. is a versatile and hardy plant that can adapt to a variety of conditions. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soils with moderate moisture. It is best to plant it in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the first few months after planting. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist, not waterlogged or completely dry. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening is the best time to minimize evaporation loss
Fertilization
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, during the first growing season, feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer containing all the necessary nutrients. Thereafter, you may feed it once or twice annually with nitrogen-based fertilizers, but don't overdo it.
Pruning
It is best to prune Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. during the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote healthier growth. Trim back any overgrown branches to maintain the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr.
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. can be propagated through various methods. Some common propagation methods are:
Softwood cuttings
Softwood cuttings is a commonly used propagation method for Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. This method involves taking a cutting from a young, actively growing branch, typically between late spring and early summer. The cutting should be around 4-6 inches long with at least two sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the bottom set and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil with a rooting hormone. Keep the soil moist and in a warm and humid environment until roots have developed, usually within 4-6 weeks.
Hardwood cuttings
Hardwood cuttings is another propagation method that can be used for Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. This method is typically done during the dormant season, between late fall and early spring. Cuttings should be around 8-12 inches long with a diameter of approximately ½ inch. Remove any leaves and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil with a rooting hormone. Keep the soil moist and in a cool and humid environment. Roots should develop within a few months.
Division
Division is a propagation method typically used for more mature plants of Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. Start by digging up the plant and carefully separating the root system into several smaller sections. Each section should have both roots and an above-ground portion. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plant has established in its new location.
Disease Management
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. is susceptible to a few diseases that can significantly affect its growth and health. Understanding these diseases and their management practices is essential to ensure a healthy plant. Some common diseases are:
- Cytospora canker: This fungal disease can cause stem dieback and trunk cankers. To prevent the disease, remove infected branches and burn them immediately. Maintain proper irrigation and fertilization to avoid plant stress.
- Willow scab: This disease causes black, irregular-shaped scabs on leaves, shoots, and stems. To prevent the disease, prune the infected parts, and dispose of them appropriately. Increase air circulation and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Asteroma canker: This fungal disease causes small, circular cankers on the branches, which can lead to twig dieback. To manage the disease, remove infected parts and dispose of them away from the plant. Maintain proper irrigation and fertilization to avoid plant stress.
Pest Management
Salix drummondiana Barratt ex Hook. ssp. subcaerulea (Piper) E. Murr. can attract several insects and mites that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and their management practices:
- Willow borer: This insect lays eggs on the plant's bark, and the larvae tunnel into the trunk, causing damage. To manage the pest, prune the affected parts and destroy them immediately. Apply insecticides if necessary.
- Gall mites: These tiny mites cause the formation of galls on the leaves and twigs, which can hinder the plant's growth. To prevent the pest, prune the infected parts and dispose of them. Increase air circulation and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Willow leaf beetles: These beetles feed on the leaves, causing defoliation and stunted growth. To prevent the pest, prune the affected parts, and destroy them immediately. Apply insecticides if necessary.
Regular inspections can help identify any diseases or pests on the plant. Early detection and prompt management can prevent significant damage to the plant's growth and health.
