Overview
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn, commonly known as the Missouri River willow, is a species of willow tree that belongs to the family Salicaceae. This plant is native to North America and is widely distributed along the Missouri River and its tributaries.
General Appearance
Missouri River willows are medium-sized deciduous trees that can grow up to 12 to 15 feet tall. The plant has smooth, slender, grayish-brown bark. The leaves are long, narrow, and lanceolate, with a bright green color on the upper side, and a whitish-green hue on the underside. The leaves are usually 3-6 inches in length and up to 1 inch in width.
Uses
The Missouri River willow has a variety of uses. It is commonly used in riparian restoration projects and erosion control programs due to its impressive root system, which helps to stabilize riverbanks and stream sides. Additionally, the plant is used in horticulture practices, especially in moisture-loving landscapes. The Missouri River willow is also essential to local wildlife, serving as both food and shelter for various animals such as deer, beavers, and grouse.
Common Names
The Missouri River Willow goes by several names, including Goodding's willow, cottonwood-leaved willow, and in its current variation, the Missouri River willow or Salix eriocephala Michx var. ligulifolia.
Growth Conditions of Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn
Light Requirements: Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It is known to tolerate shade, but growth may be limited in heavily shaded areas. In general, it prefers bright, sunny conditions, especially in cooler climates.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is well adapted to cooler climates and is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7. It grows best in areas with cool summers and cold winters, and can withstand extreme low temperatures. It is known to tolerate temperatures as low as -45°F (-42°C).
Soil Requirements: Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is commonly found in riparian zones and wetlands where soils are often saturated or seasonally flooded. However, it can also grow in dry, sandy soils as long as there is adequate moisture. The pH range for optimal growth is between 5.5 and 7.5. Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn is tolerant of most soil types but prefers soils with high organic matter content.
Cultivation
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn, also known as the Missouri Willow, is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sand, silt, and clay. It can also tolerate different soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline. For optimal growth, it is best to plant the Missouri Willow in a sunny location, although it can also tolerate partial shade.
When planting the Missouri Willow, it is important to give it enough space to grow as it can reach heights of up to 30 feet tall and spread out to 20 feet wide. Planting them 15-20 feet apart is an ideal spacing distance. It is also best to plant it in the fall when the plant is dormant, ensuring successful establishment.
Watering needs
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. The plant prefers moist soils and may need to be watered up to three times a week in dry weather. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. To ensure proper watering, it is best to check the moisture levels of the soil regularly.
Fertilization
Missouri Willow responds well to fertilization with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can damage the plant and cause it to become more susceptible to pests and diseases. Fertilize the plant only when necessary, such as if the leaves start to yellow or the plant is not producing new growth.
Pruning
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia requires regular pruning to keep the plant's size and shape in check. Prune the stems in the late winter to early spring season before the plant starts to produce new growth. Cut off any diseased, broken, or dead branches, making sure to cut them back to healthy wood. It is best to allow the plant to grow naturally, keeping its unique shape and structure while removing any unwanted growth.
Propagation of Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn, also known as Missouri Willow, can be propagated by several methods. The plant is a shrub or a small tree that can reach a height of 6-12 feet. It is native to North America and grows well in moist soils in full sun or partial shade. Propagation is easy and can be done by seed, cuttings, or layering.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn can be obtained from a mature plant. The seeds should be collected in the fall and sown in the spring. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix should contain equal parts of sand, peat moss, and garden soil. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks. The young plants should be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown to a height of 6 inches.
Cutting Propagation
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn can be propagated by softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the summer, while hardwood cuttings should be taken in the fall. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should have several leaves attached. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix should contain equal parts of sand, peat moss, and garden soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and should root in 6-8 weeks. The young plants should be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown to a height of 6 inches.
Layering Propagation
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia (Ball) Dorn can be propagated by layering. Layering is done by bending a low branch to the ground and pinning it down with a stake. A small notch should be made on the underside of the branch where it touches the ground. The branch should be covered with soil and kept moist. Roots will form at the notch and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant after it has grown to a height of 6 inches.
Disease Management
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and survival.
Cytospora canker: This fungus can cause sunken areas on the bark, which eventually leads to the death of branches or the entire plant. The best management method is to prune and remove the affected branches or plants to prevent the spreading of the fungus. Additionally, avoid causing any mechanical injuries during pruning as it can lead to an infection.
Willow scab: This is a fungal disease that presents as yellow spots and growths on the leaves and twigs. To manage this disease, prune affected parts of the plant, dispose of diseased leaves, and ensure the plants have good air circulation. Additionally, apply a fungicide to help prevent spreading.
Bacterial blight: Leaves with brown or black spots are an indication of bacterial blight. Prune and dispose of the affected parts of the plants, and use designated pruning tools to prevent the spreading of bacteria. Avoid overhead irrigation or watering the plants frequently as they can lead to infections.
Pest Management
Salix eriocephala Michx. var. ligulifolia is prone to infestations by some pests that can cause damage to the plant.
Leaf beetles: The beetles eat the leaves, leading to defoliation. Handpick them from the plants and dispose of them. Alternatively, use insecticides if the infestation is severe.
Sawflies: They feed on the leaves and can cause massive damage if not controlled. Use insecticides or prune affected parts to control them. Make sure to dispose of the pruned parts carefully, as the larvae can continue feeding on it even after being pruned.
Aphids and scale insects: They sap sap and cause wilting, distortion and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or spray with a hose to manage aphids. Remove the scales using a scrub brush and rubbing alcohol. Additionally, attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewing flies, that feed on aphids, to help control the infestation.
