Introduction
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima (Henderson) Schneid., commonly known as narrowleaf willow or coyote willow, is a deciduous shrub in the Salicaceae family.
Origin and Habitat
The narrowleaf willow is native to western North America, growing along the streams, riverbanks, and wetlands of the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and southwestern United States. It thrives in wet soils and can tolerate periodic flooding.
Appearance
The narrowleaf willow is a multi-stemmed shrub that typically reaches a height of 6 to 10 feet, but can grow up to 20 feet in ideal conditions. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-4 inches long and less than 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are a gray-green color and have a pointed tip. The branches are thin and flexible, and the bark is brown and smooth.
Uses
The narrowleaf willow has several uses, including erosion control, wildlife habitat, and as a source of food and medicine for Native American tribes. The flexible branches are also used for basket weaving and other crafts. The plant's root system stabilizes soil and prevents erosion, making it an important part of riparian ecosystems.
Additionally, the narrowleaf willow contains salicin, a compound that has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Native American tribes would steep the bark in water to make a tea for headaches and fever.
Overall, the narrowleaf willow is an important plant for both ecological and cultural reasons.
Growth Conditions of Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima, also known as narrow-leaf willow, is a species of willow commonly found in North America. This deciduous shrub requires specific growth conditions to thrive.
Light Requirements
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima requires full sun exposure to reach its maximum potential. It needs a minimum of six hours of sunlight a day to promote healthy growth and development. Without proper sunlight exposure, it may become stunted and susceptible to disease and pests.
Temperature Requirements
Suitable temperature ranges for optimum growth of Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima are between 5 to 30°C. It can tolerate extreme low temperature (up to -20°C), and high temperature (up to 45°C). However, prolonged exposure to hot and dry conditions can cause damage to the plant and decrease its growth rate.
Soil Requirements
The narrow-leaf willow has a deep root system, and it thrives in moist and well-drained soils. It prefers soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5, and it is commonly found in areas with sandy or clayey soils. Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima is also adaptable to a wide range of soil textures including loams, sand, and heavy silt. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Cultivation Methods
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima (Henderson) Schneid. is a woody plant commonly referred to as Coyote willow or narrowleaf willow. This plant is native to North America, especially in states such as California, Colorado, and Arizona.
Coyote willow thrives best in full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soils with good moisture content. The soil should also have a pH ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Propagation of Coyote willow can be done by seeds sown in the soil after winter dormancy, or through cuttings taken in summer or early autumn. Ensure to water the plants regularly in their first year until they establish themselves.
Watering Needs
Coyote willow has high water demands, especially in the first year after planting. During this stage, it requires regular watering to help establish strong roots.
Afterward, the frequency of watering can be reduced, but the soil should never completely dry out. This plant prefers soils with good moisture content, especially during hot and dry periods.
It is important to note that excess water can lead to root rot, so it is advisable to maintain a consistent watering schedule.
Fertilization
Coyote willow is not heavy feeders. However, applying fertilizer once a year can help boost growth. The best time to fertilize Coyote willow is in early spring before new growth appears.
A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal for Coyote willow. Apply the fertilizer at the base of the plant and water thoroughly afterward.
Pruning
Coyote willow required minimal pruning since it has a natural form and does not require shaping. However, pruning can be done to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
Additionally, young plants can be pruned to promote bushier growth, while mature ones can be pruned to improve their appearance.
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the bark.
After pruning, apply a thin layer of pruning seal to protect the wounds from pests and disease.
Propagation of Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima (Henderson) Schneid.
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima (Henderson) Schneid., commonly known as the slender sandbar willow, can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima have a high germination rate, and propagation through seed is a common method used by horticulturists. The seeds should be collected from the plant in the fall when they are mature and ready to be harvested. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until the next spring when they can be planted in seedbeds. The seedbeds should be well-drained and moist, and the seeds should be sown thinly on the surface of the soil. After sowing the seeds, the soil should be lightly pressed and covered with a layer of mulch. The seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown to a height of 2-3 inches.
Cuttings Propagation
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima can also be propagated using cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the early spring, before the buds have started to open. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and should have at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in a well-drained potting mix, and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. The cutting should be kept in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight. After 4-6 weeks, the cutting should have developed roots, and can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is another method used for Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima, and it involves dividing the plant into smaller sections. The plant should be dug up in early spring, and the root should be divided into 2-3 sections, making sure that each section has roots and stems. The divided plant should be planted in a well-drained soil, and watered regularly.
Disease Management
Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima (Henderson) Schneid. is generally a hardy plant, but it may suffer from diseases that thrive during certain environmental conditions. The following are some common diseases to watch out for in this plant:
Leaf spot disease
Leaf spot disease is caused by fungi that develop in humid and wet weather conditions. Infected leaves develop spots that become reddish-brown with yellow halos around them. The spots can coalesce and cause premature defoliation. To manage this disease, maintain good air circulation around the plant, prune away infected foliage, and avoid overhead watering.
Root rot
Root rot disease is common in poorly drained soils or those that retain moisture for an extended period. Infected plants develop yellowing and wilting of the leaves, eventually leading to death. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage around the plant, minimize watering, and use well-draining soil with ample organic matter.
Pest Management
The following are common pests that can pose a threat to Salix exigua Nutt. var. tenerrima (Henderson) Schneid:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from leaves, causing curling, stunted growth, and yellowing of foliage. To manage aphid infestation, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune away heavily infested foliage.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that cause damage to leaves by puncturing them to extract sap. Infected leaves usually have yellowing and stippling, and they may fall prematurely. To manage spider mites, rinse plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, introduce predatory mites or insects, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
