Expert Q&A for How to Root a Willow Tree

First, cut a piece of softwood that is between 6 inches and 12 inches in length. Remove all flowers or fruit from the section and trim a half inch from all the leaves. Trim the length so the stem is just below the bottommost leaf.

Willows have been known to reach their maximum height in as little as 15 years. They have also been known to grow 24 inches or more in height during 1 season.

It is best to plant a willow in the fall, allowing it the winter season to stabilize and strengthen its roots. Come spring, it can use its energy to grow in height.

You would start by cutting fallen twigs or fresh branches the size of a pencil, into 1 to 3 inch pieces. Then, you soak these twigs in a half gallon of boiling water and then leave them in the water for 24 to 48 hours, allowing the hormone to leach out. Once done, and the willow pieces have been removed, the water should have the look of weak tea.