Overview
Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq., commonly known as narrowleaf willow or coyote willow, is a shrub or small tree native to western North America. This plant belongs to the Salicaceae family and is closely related to other willow species such as Salix alba and Salix purpurea.
Appearance
Narrowleaf willow can grow up to 20 feet in height and has slender, flexible branches that are often reddish-brown in color. The leaves are narrow, lanceolate to linear in shape, and grow up to 3 inches in length. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green while the underside is lighter in color. The flowers are small and inconspicuous and are arranged in catkins, which emerge in early spring before the leaves.
Origin
The natural range of narrowleaf willow extends from Alaska to California and eastward to Montana and Wyoming. It is commonly found in riparian habitats, wetlands, and along streams, where it plays an important role in stabilizing the soil, providing habitat for wildlife, and reducing erosion.
Uses
Narrowleaf willow has a long history of use by native peoples for a variety of purposes. The flexible branches were used to create baskets, traps, and other woven items. The bark was boiled to make a tea that was used to treat fevers, headaches, and other ailments. The plant is also an important food source for wildlife such as beavers, deer, and elk.
In modern times, narrowleaf willow is planted for erosion control, streambank stabilization, and as an ornamental plant. It is also used in the production of cricket bats due to its flexible and durable wood.
Light Requirements
The Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can also grow in partially shaded areas but may not thrive as well as it would in full sun. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. in an area where it can get maximum sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. can grow in various temperature ranges. Its growth is faster in climates that have mild temperatures. It grows well in zones 4-9, which have an average temperature range of -34.4°C to 15°C (-30°F to 59°F). Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, may slow its growth and overall health.
Soil Requirements
The Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It can tolerate various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. However, the plant's growth is more prolific in soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. It requires regular watering during the early stages of growth but once established, moderate watering will suffice. It is also vital to avoid waterlogged soils as that could lead to root rot and other fungal infections that may damage the plant.
Cultivation
Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. can be grown in many different soil types such as sandy, loamy or even clay soil. This plant species generally prefers moist to wet soil, so it is best to grow it close to a water source.
Watering Needs
Since Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. species prefers moist to wet soil, it is necessary to keep the soil around the plant adequately watered, especially during the hot summer months. It is best to water the plant deeply once or twice a week rather than frequent shallow watering.
Fertilization
The species does not require much fertilization, but it can grow faster and more robust with regular fertilization. A general-purpose fertilizer can be applied during the growing season, but it is important not to over-do it as too much fertilizer can damage the plant roots.
Pruning
Pruning of Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq. should be done during the winter dormant season. This species requires minimal pruning. The key focus should be on removing dead or damaged branches to improve plant aesthetics and health. Additionally, pruning can be done to control the size and shape of the plant to fit the landscape or garden design requirements.
Propagation of Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes
Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq., commonly known as slender sandbar willow, is a hardy plant that grows well in various soil types, including sandy or gravelly soils. Propagation of this variety of willow can be done through different methods.
Seed Propagation
Slender sandbar willow can be propagated through seeds. Seeds are collected in late summer or early fall when the capsules containing them have ripened and turned brown. The seeds are then stratified in moist sand at 4°C for at least two months before sowing. Sow the seeds in the early spring in a mixture of peat and sand and moisten the soil regularly. Seed propagation typically has a lower success rate than other methods of propagation, such as softwood cuttings.
Softwood Cuttings
Propagation through softwood cuttings is one of the most successful methods for propagating willow plants. The best time to cut the willow stem for propagation is in early summer when the plant's softwood is green and supple. Cuttings are generally about six inches in length with at least three leaf nodes. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the prepared cutting in a seedling tray with a suitable rooting medium and keep it moist. After about six weeks, new roots should have formed, and the cutting can be transplanted into a pot or directly in the ground.
Hardwood Cuttings
Propagation of slender sandbar willow through hardwood cuttings can be done during the dormant season in late fall or early winter. Cut the branch into lengths of about 8 inches, with at least one bud and no less than 1/4 inch in diameter. Bundle the cuttings and store them in moist sand or sawdust. In the spring, plant the prepared cuttings in a mixture of peat and sand and keep the soil moist. Roots should develop within a few months.
Propagation of Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes through cuttings is faster and more successful than seed propagation, but it requires more supplies and attention to growing conditions. With proper care, slender sandbar willow can grow into healthy and attractive trees or shrubs.
Common Diseases and Pests of Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq.
Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes (Ball) Cronq., commonly known as slender sandbar willow or coyote willow, is a shrub species that belongs to the Salicaceae family. While this plant is generally hardy, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common problems that may affect Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes and how to manage them:
Diseases
Cytospora Canker: This fungal disease causes sunken, dead areas on the bark, often near the base of the tree. To manage this disease, prune back affected branches and provide good sanitation practices.
Willow Scab: Willow scab is a fungal disease that can cause irregular, scabby lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant. The best way to manage this disease is to remove and destroy affected parts of the plant and improve air circulation around the plant.
Black Canker: Black canker is a disease that affects the branches of the plant, causing them to become black and die back. To manage this disease, prune back affected branches and provide good sanitation practices.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of aphids.
Willow Leaf Beetles: Willow leaf beetles are a common pest that can defoliate the plant if left untreated. They are easy to identify by their shiny black bodies with yellow stripes. To manage this pest, handpick the beetles or use insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of spider mites.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests and taking action when needed, you can keep your Salix exigua Nutt. var. gracilipes healthy and thriving.
