The first thing to learn when learning how to cut pussywillow trees is when to do it. The best time for when to prune a pussywillow tree is actually when the catkins are on the tree. This will ensure that you trim the plant before it has started active growth... How to Grow PussyWillows in Pots. Growing willow in pots is possible but usually reserved for young plants, as they tend to get overgrown and root-bound with age.How long do pussywillows live? Pussywillows last from 20 to 50 years if they're taken care of correctly. Before pruning your pussywillow, determine your desired outcome. If you're hoping to encourage the plant to produce long, straight branches filled with catkins, then you'll want to use the coppice pruning technique, which involves severely cutting the plant back. Easy-to-grow pussywillows are happy in average to wet soils. Salix discolor can thrive in full sun to part shade, although less light means the plants won’t produce as many fuzzy catkins. Growing PussyWillows and Curly Willows Japanese Fantail Willow in early spring If you’re a gardener, you know that the first signs of spring growth are as exciting as little league opening day. Pussywillows are fascinating plants that can grow as shrubs or small trees, often sparking curiosity. In late winter, soft, fuzzy nubs appear on the branches, resembling kitten paws (hence their name). These velvety nubs protect the flowers from the cold before they bloom. Cutting Back the PussyWillows. Lots of cutting and pruning continues at my farm. Spring officially begins in less than two weeks. It's always exciting and refreshing to discover a few signs of the season - snowdrops, crocus and the soft, velvety paws of the pussywillow, Salix discolor. When and how should I prune my very sad weeping pussywillow? HelloI think that pruningpussywillows is different than pruning regular willows, as far as I know pussywillows have to be pruned. posted by ameliaaah at 9:20 AM on . When they need to be pruned, pussywillows make for a nice addition to a bouquet for your kitchen. Learn more about how one homesteader came to embrace the pussywillows that grow in her garden. How to Propagate PussyWillow. Willows are some of the easiest plants out there to grow from cuttings. They’ll take root in any well-draining soil, or you can start the roots growing in water. Trim a PussyWillow Bush with Coppice Pruning Trim the pussywillow down to 6 to 12 (15-30 cm.) inches from the ground.How do you care for a cut pussywillow? When should willow trees be pruned? When can I trim my weeping willow? ‘How often do you prune your willows?’ you may ask. It varies. We have to consider the vigor of different varieties and also, of course, the amount of time we have to spare.A close-up of two soft, fuzzy pussywillow catkins on a branch, set against a plain green background. How to Propagate. PruningPussyWillows.Common Problems and how to Solve Them. Select the Right Variety. Ongoing care and maintenance of pussywillows is made a lot easier by selecting varieties that, when they are fully mature, are suitable for your garden.