QUESTION
Thanks for receiving my email.
Two years ago I planted a lovely tree/shrub; Willow, Hakuro Nishiki.
last summer it was continually covered with curled, gray tinged leaves.
It does not look healthy. I am considering moving it to a large pot.
The ground is clay and usually moist at the roots.
Any suggestions?
Thank you in advance for your time.
I live in the mid-west USA.
ANSWER
Thank you for your enquiry regarding your willow tree. I hope the following
information will be of some help to you.
The problem is most likely wind scorch. Scorching of leaves, which can be caused
by moisture on the leaves of the tree, which magnifies the suns rays. The plant
cannot replace the moisture from the roots fast enough to replenish the rest
of the plant. This can be a particular problem for newly planted and container
grown trees. Try to water your tree in the morning before the suns rays get to
hot or late in the evening when it is cooler. Misting the leaves in the evening
will also help.
Alternatively move the tree to a sheltered site.... protected by higher trees,
walls etc. This variety of willow is a short plant which usually only lives for
approximately 6 years I suggest you take some cuttings.
Unfortunately our climate is significantly colder and wetter than your own, maybe
advice local to your area would be more beneficial.