Willows

Garden Problems

Willows (Salix) such as the crack willow and grey willow form fast growing clumps of dense vegetation often near water as they tolerate flooding.

Identify the problem
Willows spread easily as stem fragments are spread by water, and suckers spread locally. Willow replaces native species in riparian sites and forms vast dense (often pure) stands along channels. Causes blockages, flooding and structural changes in waterways.
How to solve the problem
- Cut willow down to well below lowest green leaves and immediately apply thick layer of Weed Weapon Invade Gel or Weed Weapon Stump Stop Gel to cut stems and stumps.
- Or spray whole willow plant with Weed Weapon Rapid Action, or Weed Weapon Extra Strength plus Dye & Stick.
Stop willow returning
- Almost all cut stems will root where they are dropped and cut stumps re-sprout rapidly if not treated. Do not cut willow unless all plant material can be disposed of at a refuse transfer station or by burning. Best to treat with Weed Weapon Extra Strength plus Dye & Stick while standing to avoid live stem contact with ground.
Note: These products cannot be used, in, on or over water.
Did you know?
- Willows were planted intentionally on stream and river banks and also in damp places to absorb water.
- Willows, also known as sallows and osiers are in the genus Salix. The willow family includes silver poplar, grey willow and crack willow.
- Latin names: Polplar - Populus alba, Grey willow - Salix cinerea, Crack willow - Salix fragilis.