Origin
The Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson is a type of willow tree that is native to North America. It is commonly found along streams and rivers in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The tree is particularly common in the forests of Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known by several names including Sitka Willow, Pacific Willow, Coast Willow, and Pliant Willow. In addition, the tree is also referred to by the scientific names Salix pellita and Salix sitchensis var. pellita.
Uses
The Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson has several uses. Historically, native Alaskan tribes have used this tree for basket weaving, firewood, and building shelters. The bark of the tree contains salicylic acid, which is similar to aspirin, and has been used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. The tree is also beneficial in riparian zones as it helps to control erosion and regulate stream temperatures.
General Appearance
The Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. The leaves are narrow and elongated, typically measuring 2-4 inches in length. The bark of the tree is smooth and greyish-brown in color. The tree blooms in the spring and produces small, cylindrical catkins that are typically less than an inch long. The Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson prefers moist, well-drained soils and is often found in wetlands and riparian zones.
Light Requirements
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita grows best in partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but it may grow slower and not produce as much foliage or fruit.
Temperature Requirements
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita prefers mild to cool temperatures. It can withstand some frost, but it may not survive extremely cold winters. It grows best in areas with temperatures ranging from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita prefers well-draining, moist soil. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are not too alkaline or too acidic. A pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 is ideal for this plant to thrive.
Cultivation Methods
The Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson, commonly called Sitka willow, is a hardy tree that prefers cool and moist environments. It can be propagated by seeds or by hardwood cuttings during the dormant season. The planting hole should be twice the size of the root ball, and the tree should be planted at the same depth as it was in the previous container or nursery.
Watering Needs
Sitka willow requires consistent watering, especially during the first year after planting. The soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged. It is essential to ensure that the water reaches the roots to encourage deep and healthy root systems. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Fertilization
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson is a fast-growing tree that benefits from regular fertilization. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers can be applied in the spring and summer months to encourage the tree’s growth and the development of lush foliage. An organic, slow-release fertilizer can be used to provide nutrients over a more extended period.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the tree and promote healthy growth. Sitka willow can be pruned during the dormant season to remove dead or damaged branches. New branches can develop from the base of the cut branch, which can help the plant attain its desired shape. It is essential to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the tree. Additionally, the Sitka willow can benefit from regular "crown lifting" to remove low branches that may be obstructing pedestrian traffic or vehicular views.
Propagation of Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita (Anderss.) Jepson, commonly known as Sitka willow, is a hardy wetland shrub that is native to the Pacific Northwest. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita can be propagated by seeds. The seeds are small and should be collected in the fall season. They should then be stored in a cool, dry place until the spring. Before planting, the seeds should be soaked in water for one to two days. The seeds can then be planted in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of sand. It is important to keep the soil moist during the germination process.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another propagation method for Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita is by using cuttings. This method can be used during the late summer or early fall. Select cuttings that are around 12 inches long, including at least two buds. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Roots should begin to form in approximately six weeks, and the new plants can then be transplanted to the desired location.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is a method that involves bending a branch of the plant and burying it in the ground to stimulate the growth of new roots. This method can be used for Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita during the fall season. A low branch of the plant should be selected and bent down to the soil. The area where the branch makes contact with the soil should be scraped and a small amount of rooting hormone should be applied. The area should then be covered with soil and held in place with a stake. The new plant should begin to establish its own root system in approximately six months and can then be transplanted to the desired location.
Disease Management
Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita is generally resistant to most diseases, but a few fungal diseases may occasionally affect the plant. The most common ones include:
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause dieback in shoots or branches. Remove infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Avoid mechanical injuries to the tree, and ensure you keep the soil around the tree healthy to prevent cankers.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves and twig cankers. Remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Fungicides may be used to prevent the disease from spreading. Ensure the plant is well-aerated, and avoid high humidity conditions as these favour the growth of rust.
Pest Management
Although Salix sitchensis Sanson ex Bong. var. pellita is generally pest-resistant, certain insects may occasionally attack the plant. Some of the most common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Scales: These insects suck the sap from the stems and leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to get rid of them. Ensure the plant is well-watered, as a water-stressed tree is more susceptible to scales than a healthy one.
- Aphids: Aphids can cause stunted growth and yellow foliage. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to get rid of them. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to feed on the aphids. Wash them off using a high-pressure water spray.
