Pussywillow tree - Ask Extension
Hello,
I purchased a pussy willow tree looks like a female variety on a whim from Home depot. I live on 1 acre city lot, and I been reading that thi...
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Pussywillow tree #866310
Asked April 29, 2024, 1:53 PM EDT
Hello,
I purchased a pussy willow tree looks like a female variety on a whim from Home depot. I live on 1 acre city lot, and I been reading that this tree can be invasive. I am nervous about planting it, and not sure where to plant it. What sort of invasive trouble does it cause? Can I put it out by the road on a border with other trees? I also read to keep it away from your septic and sewer mounds, do you know how far it should be kept from? Are the roots pretty long?
Thanks for your help
Shelly Donahue
Anoka County Minnesota
Expert Response
Willows have dense, shallow roots that seek out water. This means they can grow into septic/sewer lines and water lines. They enter the pipes through tiny leaks or drainage holes and, as the roots increase in diameter, make big holes that can cause very expensive repairs. The roots can also push up and break roads and sidewalks. They are fast-growing, which results in weak wood, so strong winds can cause damage.
Pussy willows don't live a long time, but they sucker freely, so they spread. I would not plant one any closer that 30-50 feet from my mound or septic lines and would keep an eye on where they are spreading.
Willows do a good job in pulling out water from wet or swampy areas. They also are great early bloomers for native pollinators. But, they can cause a lot of damage.
Pussy willows don't live a long time, but they sucker freely, so they spread. I would not plant one any closer that 30-50 feet from my mound or septic lines and would keep an eye on where they are spreading.
Willows do a good job in pulling out water from wet or swampy areas. They also are great early bloomers for native pollinators. But, they can cause a lot of damage.
