Salix glaucosericea, common name silky willow or Alpine grey willow, is a species of flowering plant in the Salicaceae family. Some authorities consider it a synonym of Salix glauca var. villosa, which is found in western North America.
Bluish willow is well resistant to diseases and is typically not susceptible to them. As for care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger plants usually do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Bluish willowt is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much experience in plant care.
How to keep Salix Glaucosericea.
Water
The bluish willow needs regular watering, particularly for seedlings and young plants during the summer. While mature plants are drought-resistant, they are usually watered daily around 5 PM, depending on how dry the soil is. These plants have a high tolerance for water-logging, so extra water drainage isn't necessary.
Temperature
Bluish willow is highly adaptable to a variety of climatic conditions, from blazing summers to freezing winters. Nevertheless, it has an ideal temperature range for growth. If temperatures rise too much, the plant can suffer heat and humidity stress that may kill it. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of its cold tolerance, it is important to apply insulation measures to protect the plant.
Fertilizer
To encourage healthy growth, fertilize your Bluish willow in early spring. Regular feeding boosts its overall health, producing vigorous growth, increased tolerance of harsh conditions, and improved resistance to diseases and pests. Keep a consistent fertilization schedule for your Bluish willow to preserve vibrant, deeply colored foliage and a lush appearance.
Pruning
To ensure the health and growth of a bluish willow, proper care and regular pruning are essential. Pruning improves air circulation and light access, which are crucial for the plant's well-being. For seedlings, it's best to concentrate on developing a single main branch. After making trimming cuts, apply tung oil to protect the exposed areas. The ideal times for pruning are early spring, late fall, and winter.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Salix
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 3-7
- Mature Height
- 1.22 m
- Mature Spread
- 1.52 m
- Leaf Color
- Silver
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 4.06 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Native Area
- Italy, Switzerland, Austria, France
Other names.