Photo: Opioła Jerzy (Poland), CC BY 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Dwarf shrub
Creeping willow: when and how to prune
Salix repens
Creeping willow is best pruned in May–June.
| Pruning months | May–June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–May |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Creeping willow: when to prune it?
After flowering, in May–June.
Creeping willow: how to prune it?
- Little needed. Trim overlong or upright branches.
- An old plant can be cut back hard: it regrows easily.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: May–June.
- Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Common mistakes
- Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
Caution: Don’t prune in winter or early spring: you would cut off the catkins, which feed the first bees in April.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from goat willow · Difference from osier
Plant profile: Creeping willow · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.