Overview
Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle, also known as the golden weeping willow, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Salicaceae. It is a hybrid between Salix alba and Salix babylonica, and is commonly cultivated for its ornamental value.
Origin
The golden weeping willow is believed to have originated in Europe, where it was first developed as a hybrid in the 19th century. It has since been introduced to various parts of the world, including North America, South America, and Asia. Its popularity as an ornamental tree has made it a common sight in many parks, gardens, and public spaces.
Common Names
The golden weeping willow is known by several common names, including golden willow, weeping willow, and golden weeping willow. Its scientific name, Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle, is also used to refer to the plant.
Uses
The golden weeping willow is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive golden-yellow foliage and graceful, weeping branches. Its fast growth rate and tolerance for various soil types make it an ideal choice for landscaping. The tree is also commonly used in erosion control, as its extensive root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Appearance
The golden weeping willow is a large, deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 30 meters. Its branches are long and pendulous, giving the tree a weeping appearance. The leaves are bright green in the summer, turning to a golden-yellow color in the fall before dropping. The bark is smooth and gray, and the tree produces inconspicuous flowers in the spring.
Growth Conditions of Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma
Light: Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma thrives in partial shade to full sun. However, it is best to avoid exposing the plant to intense sunlight for prolonged periods of time, as this may cause leaf scorching.
Temperature: This plant prefers cool temperatures and can tolerate a minimum temperature of -23°C. It is important to note that it may not be able to withstand extreme temperature changes.
Soil: Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma grows well in organically rich, well-drained soil. The soil should also be consistently moist but not waterlogged. This variety of willow tree can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil between the pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Fertilizer: Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma requires minimal fertilizer application. However, if required, a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring before new growth appears.
Water: Regular watering is necessary for the plant’s growth especially during the first few months after planting. Once established, however, the plant is drought-tolerant and can do well with moderate watering.
Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the plant’s shape and overall health. It should be done in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth.
Cultivation of Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle
Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle, also known as the golden weeping willow, is an ornamental tree that can grow up to 60 feet tall and equally wide at maturity. This tree requires full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. When planting, make sure to choose a location with enough space to accommodate the tree's mature size.
Watering Needs
When establishing a new tree, it is crucial to provide it with enough water to allow the roots to establish. The golden weeping willow is a moderately drought-tolerant tree, but it requires consistent moisture to thrive. During the first year, water the tree deeply once a week, and increase the frequency during periods of drought. Once the tree is established, water it deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The golden weeping willow tree does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional feeding, especially if grown in nutrient-poor soil. Fertilize the tree in early spring before new growth begins using a slow-release fertilizer or organic compost. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or early fall, as it can encourage tender growth that is vulnerable to winter injury.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of maintaining the golden weeping willow tree's shape and size. Regular pruning will help keep the tree healthy, improve its structure, and remove any damaged or diseased branches. It is best to prune the tree during the dormant season, between late autumn and early spring. If you need to remove a large branch, do so in stages to avoid damaging the tree’s bark. Unless you are experienced, it is a good idea to consult a certified arborist for pruning guidance.
Propagation of Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle
Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma, commonly known as the Golden Weeping Willow, is a deciduous tree that is popularly cultivated for its ornamental value. The propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be done using several methods.
Propagation by Cuttings
One of the most commonly used methods of propagating Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma is by cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the dormant season, in winter or early spring. Here are the steps to follow when propagating by cuttings:
- Take cuttings that are around 30cm long and 1cm in diameter.
- Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
- Scrape off a small section of bark at the base of the cutting to expose the cambium layer.
- Apply rooting hormone to the cut end of the stem.
- Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a rooting mixture of sand and peat.
- Water the cutting and place it in a shaded area.
- Keep the soil damp but not waterlogged and after a few weeks, the cutting should start developing roots.
- When the cutting has developed a healthy root system, transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Another method of propagating Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma is by layering. This method involves burying a low hanging branch or stem, encouraging the plant to root from that stem. Once it has rooted, the stem can be cut from the mother plant and transplanted elsewhere. Here are the steps to follow when propagating by layering:
- Choose a healthy low hanging stem.
- Bend the stem downwards and make a shallow cut on the underside of the stem, about 10cm away from the tip.
- Dust the cut with rooting hormone.
- Bury the cut section in a shallow trench in the soil, making sure to leave the tip of the stem exposed.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The stem should root in a few weeks.
- Once the stem has developed a healthy root system, it can be cut from the mother plant and transplanted.
Propagation by Suckers
Propagation by suckers involves planting new shoots that emerge from the base of a mature Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma tree. Here are the steps to follow when propagating by suckers:
- Identify a sucker emerging from the base of the mother plant.
- Cut the sucker away from the main plant using a sharp, clean knife.
- Ensure the sucker has a healthy root system.
- Plant the sucker in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist but not overwatered.
- Once the sucker has developed a healthy root system, it can be transplanted into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle
Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle is a hybrid willow cultivar that is relatively disease-resistant. However, it may still fall victim to certain pests and diseases that commonly afflict other willow species. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant, as well as some suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight is a disease that is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas syringae. Symptoms include black lesions on the bark, wilting leaves, and sometimes, ooze from the bark. To manage this disease, prune all infected wood and dispose of it immediately. You may also use copper-based fungicides that are specifically made to target bacterial blight.
Canker: Willow canker is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing or wilting leaves, stunted growth, and sunken patches on the bark. Infected wood should be pruned during a dry period, and you should use a fungicide to protect healthy bark from the canker.
Pests
Aphids: Willow aphids can cause the leaves to curl and become distorted. They can also transmit viruses that harm the plant. To manage this pest, use a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids from the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap to treat the infestation.
Sawflies: Sawflies are caterpillar-like larvae that can defoliate the tree if not controlled. Handpicking them off the plant can be effective for small infestations. You may also use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad to treat severe infestations.
By monitoring your Salix ×sepulcralis Simonkai var. chrysocoma (Dode) Meikle regularly and taking appropriate action when you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation, you can keep your plant healthy and strong.
