Origin
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia is a flowering plant species in the family Salicaceae, native to the northern hemisphere. It is commonly found in the arctic and alpine regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Common Names
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia is commonly known as Arctic willow, Round-leaf willow or Diamond willow.
Uses
Arctic Willow is used traditionally as a painkiller. It contains a compound called salicin, which was first isolated from this plant and was later used as the model for developing aspirin, a popular painkiller today.
The stems of the Arctic willow are flexible and have unique diamond or round patterns, which make them useful in handicrafts. They are popular for making decorative walking sticks, picture frames, and furniture.
Appearance
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia is a small, slow-growing shrub that can grow up to 1-2 m tall. It has thin, flexible branches covered with small, round or diamond-shaped leaves that are dark green on the upper side and pale green underneath. The flowers are small and yellow, found in small clusters along the stem. The plant is adaptable to various soil types and can thrive in moist or dry areas.
The unique diamond and round pattern on the stems of Arctic willows is a result of insect infestation. The insects bore holes into the bark, creating the patterns that are often used as decorative features.
Light Requirements
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia requires full sunlight to grow vigorously. It does not perform well under shady conditions. Adequate sunlight ensures good leaf development, photosynthesis, and overall plant growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to grow well in cold and harsh climatic conditions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C. However, for optimal growth, temperatures ranging from 10-20°C are recommended. Temperatures below 0°C reduce water availability to the plant, leading to reduced growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia prefers well-drained soils that are moist, acidic to slightly alkaline, and rich in organic matter. This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions or excess soil salinity.
Cultivation methods
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia, commonly known as Bog Willow, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that thrives in wetlands, swamps, and marshes. They can be propagated by seeds or cuttings and prefer to grow in acidic soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5. It's essential to plant them in areas with full to partial sun exposure, as shade can limit their growth potential. The ideal temperature range for growing Bog Willow is between -40°C and 30°C.
Watering needs
The Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia requires a consistent supply of water, which can be achieved by planting them in wet to moist soils or regularly watering them. It's essential to ensure that the water reaches the roots of the tree as they grow close to the surface. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to the tree's root rot or fungal growth.
Fertilization
Bog Willow is a hardy plant that doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, you can fertilize them annually with a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and potassium. Fertilizing in late winter or early spring will promote healthy growth and development. Be sure to follow the fertilizer's instructions carefully and avoid overfertilization.
Pruning
Pruning Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia is not a necessity, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, to avoid damaging new shoots. Remove any dead, damaged, or infected branches, and thin out crowded branches to enhance air circulation. Avoid excessive pruning as it can stunt the tree's growth and leave it susceptible to disease and pest infestation.
Propagation of Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia, commonly known as round-leaved willow, is a species of the willow family Salicaceae that is native to North America. The plant is a procumbent, low-growing shrub that grows in moist soils and rocky areas.
Seed Propagation
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia can be propagated by seed. The best time to collect seeds is in the fall when the capsules have opened and the seeds are mature.
Once collected, it is important to clean the seeds and dry them at room temperature. The seeds should then be stored in a cool and dry place until ready for planting.
Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified to break the tough seed coat and improve germination. This can be done by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or soaking them in hot water for 24 hours.
The seeds can be sown directly in the ground in the fall or spring. Alternatively, they can be started indoors in pots and transplanted outdoors once they have grown larger.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia is by stem cuttings.
The best time to take cuttings is in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from new green growth that is at least 6 inches long.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. They should be kept warm and moist and will usually root within a few weeks.
Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into the ground or into larger pots. It is important to keep the newly transplanted cuttings well-watered until they are established.
Division Propagation
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia can also be propagated by division.
This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots attached and new growth.
Once divided, the sections can be replanted in a new location or in pots. It is important to keep the newly transplanted sections well-watered until they are established.
In summary, Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia can be propagated by seed, cuttings, and division. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to the grower to decide which method works best for their situation.
Disease and Pest Management for Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia
Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia, commonly known as the round-leaved willow, is a species of willow that grows well in wet areas. However, just like any other plant, it is prone to diseases and pests that can decrease its productivity and vitality. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia and suggestions on how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Willow Scab - Willow scab is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on leaves. This disease also affects stems and branches, causing cankers and dieback. To manage willow scab, remove infected branches and leaves. Also, avoid overhead watering and plant resistant varieties of willow.
Crown Gall - Crown gall is a bacterial disease that causes tumors on stems and roots. These tumors can restrict the flow of nutrients, reducing the plant's growth. To prevent crown gall, sanitize garden tools before and after use. Also, plant disease-free cuttings, avoid planting in areas with soil compaction, and choose resistant cultivars.
Black Canker - Black canker is a fungal disease that causes dark lesions on stems. These lesions can girdle the stem, killing the plant. To manage black canker, remove infected stems, sterilize garden tools, and avoid mechanical injuries to the plant.
Common Pests
Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap of plants. They can cause leaf distortion, discoloration, and in severe infestations, plant death. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Willow Leaf Beetle - Willow leaf beetles are small, oval-shaped insects that chew on the leaves of willows. They can cause severe defoliation, reducing the plant's growth. To manage willow leaf beetles, handpick and destroy adults and larvae. Also, use neem oil or insecticidal soap as a natural control.
Leafhoppers - Leafhoppers are small, wedge-shaped insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause leaf yellowing, curling, and in severe infestations, stunt plant growth. To manage leafhoppers, use row covers to exclude adults or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
By following these suggestions, you can manage the diseases and pests that commonly affect Salix rotundifolia Trautv. ssp. rotundifolia, and keep your round-leaved willows healthy and productive.
