Eared willow: when and how to prune

Eared willow: when to prune it?

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After flowering (April–May), so that bees can make use of the catkins.

What else to prune in those months? April · May

Eared willow: how to prune it?

1. Needs little pruning: remove dead wood and thin out congested parts.
2. A shrub that has grown too big can be cut back low down every few years.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: April–May.
• Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.
• Can be cut back to just above the ground every few years and will then regrow.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in April–May can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Grey willow
• Almond willow
• Goat willow
• Osier
• Purple willow
• Bay willow

Similar to: Difference from goat willow · Difference from bog-myrtle · Difference from grey willow

Plant profile: Eared willow · Pruning calendar and basic rules