Japanese willow shrub is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. The japanese willow shrub has many benefits including being drought tolerant and providing year-round interest. The japanese willow shrub can be used as a specimen plant or in mass plantings.
Related plant:
Japanese Azalea Orange
Related plant:
Japanese Holly Hedge
About soil condition, it should be well-drained, and moist but not soggy. The soil should be amended with organic matter such as compost orleaf mold prior to planting. The Japanese willow shrub can tolerant of a wide range of soil pH, but prefer slightly acidic soils.
Like the other trees and shrubs, the Japanese willow shrub needs sunlight to grow. However, it is not as picky as some other plants when it comes to the amount of sunlight it needs. The Japanese willow shrub can tolerate partial shade, as well as full sun.
The temperature condition is ideal for the growth of the Japanese willow shrub. The average temperature in the region is around 15 degrees Celsius and the shrub requires a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius to survive. The temperature condition is therefore perfect for the growth and survival of the Japanese willow shrub.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60% or less. This plant should be watered regularly, however, over-watering can lead to root rot. It is best to wait until the soil is dry to the touch before watering again. The plant does not do well in high humidity and will start to drop leaves if the humidity is too high.
For the fertilizer, this family of plant doesn't need much. In general, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring, with perhaps a light second application in mid-summer, is sufficient. Be sure to follow the fertilizer manufacturer's instructions. For the root, the Japanese willow shrub has a very dense and fibrous root system. It is best not to disturb the roots when transplanting or cultivating around the plant.
Pruning is a vital part of keeping your Japanese willow shrub healthy and looking its best. When and how you prune will depend on the type of shrub you have and your desired look. Generally, it is best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will give the plant time to heal before the stress of new growth. For shaping or hedging, prune as needed to maintain the desired shape.
Propagation is typically done by rooting cuttings taken from the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that is not yet woody, and they should be 6 to 8 inches long. The cuttings should be placed in a pot of moistened potting mix, and then covered with plastic to create a humid environment. After a few weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Usually, the plant growth rate is fast, producing 2 to 3 feet of growth per year. However, some varieties may only grow 1 foot per year. The japanese willow shrub is a low-maintenance plant that does not require fertilization or pruning.
Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, caterpillars, scale, and whiteflies. These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow, stunt the growth of the plant, and even kill the plant. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil. You can also try to attract beneficial insects to your garden, such as ladybugs, which will help to control the pests.
Source:
Dappled Willow - Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki' - PNW Plants
Selecting Landscape Plants: Deciduous Shrubs | MU Extension
Japanese Kerria | Home & Garden Information Center - Clemson
