When you’re checking on your Dappled Willow (Hakuro Nishiki), don’t just stop at those beautiful variegated leaves—take a good look at the branches, too! The state of the wood tells you a lot about the overall health of your shrub. If you’re noticing some brittle spots, don’t panic. Here’s a quick guide on what dry branches might be telling you and how to fix it.
Common Culprits for Dry Branches:
- Natural growth cycles
- Less-than-ideal planting spots
- Pest infestations
What to Look for When Inspecting Your Willow
First, take a headcount of those dry twigs. Are you only seeing a few brown branches here and there while the rest of the plant is pushing out fresh, new growth? If so, you’re likely in the clear! Dappled Willows naturally shed old wood as they grow. Just grab your shears and prune those dry bits off; it actually helps the plant focus its energy on new stems.
However, if you notice a cluster of dry branches all in one specific area or pointing in the same direction, your willow might be trying to tell you something about its location or care routine. Check if that side of the plant is getting scorched by too much direct afternoon sun or if the soil there is waterlogged. For example, if it’s planted too close to a house wall, water might be pooling in one spot, causing root issues.
If you’re seeing a significant amount of dieback across the whole plant, it’s time to take action. If you’ve ruled out bad “real estate” or watering issues, you might be dealing with a pest problem or a fungal infection. In both cases, a targeted pruning is necessary. If it’s pests, you’ll want to be even more aggressive and go for a hard rejuvenation prune to save the plant.
Boost Your Willow with Better Nutrients and Hydration
The best way to keep your willow resilient is to make sure it’s well-fed and hydrated. If pests aren’t the problem, improving the growing conditions will usually do the trick. There are two “garden gold” materials that can really help:
Try mixing some organic compost into the soil around the base; it acts as a fantastic natural fertilizer. You should also lay down a nice layer of mulch. Mulch is a lifesaver for these plants because it locks in moisture. Since Dappled Willows are shallow-rooted, that extra surface moisture helps them soak up every drop of water you give them!
