The main System of a Weeping Willow

Weeping willows (Salix spp.) Produce extensive root systems that spread much beyond their canopies. The competitive root systems of these trees may damage pavements and buried structures around them. Installing protective root barriers around vulnerable buried structures and picking out the right planting spot for your own weeping willow helps ensure the long-term wellbeing of your tree and protects your property from damage.

Growth Habit

The origins of weeping willow trees create a network of shallow roots that spread out of the tree in each direction. Weeping willow roots may spread out from the back up to 3 times the distance between the edge of the tree foliage and its trunk. Weeping willows typically produce leaf that is between 45 and 70 feet wide at maturity with roots that may spread approximately 100 feet in the center of the trunk of large specimens.

Planting Locations

Weeping willows have a broad growth habit above and below the ground that requires an open space. Weeping willows grow well in full or partially shaded places but favor direct sunlight. The origins of weeping willow are adapted to moist soils made of clay, loam or sand with an acidic or alkaline pH but grow best in regions that are well-drained and free of competing origins from other plants. Selecting areas with appropriate drainage helps stop the growth of fungi in the soil and prevents root rot.

Root Care

Weeping willows have extensive root systems that grow near the surface. Disturbing the soil around your willow may damage its origins, weakening your tree and rendering it vulnerable to additional damage from insects, disease or weather. In case a mowed lawn surrounds your willow, then take care to avoid damaging roots that broach the surface once you mow.

Root Barriers

Root barriers can stop the root system of your weeping willow from damaging unseen sewer and water lines, septic tanks or base walls. Physical root barriers made of plastic or metal concealed between your weeping willow and vulnerable structures limit the growth of large potentially harmful origins. Wire mesh root barriers allow small roots to spread beyond the barrier and permit water to drain through the barrier. Solid barriers of metal or plastic often force origins to grow around them and can prevent water in the soil from draining properly.

Considerations

Root barriers are most effective when they’re buried at least 3 feet deep. Using a root barrier that runs the entire length of this structure you want to guard ensures that the broad root system of this weeping willow does not merely grow around the barrier. Using a substandard root barrier only postpones the damage this tree may cause. The origins of weeping willow trees frequently broach the surface of the soil and can result in substantial damage to sidewalks and other paved surfaces near the tree.

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