Corkscrew Willow Water Needs

Site Selection

• The corkscrew willow, also called the dragon's claw willow, is especially ornamental because of its odd growth pattern. Its branches curve and twist, eventually becoming quite contorted, and its 4-inch-long leaves also twist and curl. The best location for this tree is one that tends to stay moist or might have standing -- not stagnant -- water from time to time. It does especially well near a pond, stream or other water feature, although it can tolerate occasional dryness once it is well established.

Soil

• Like most willows, the corkscrew tree has small, inconspicuous yellow flowers borne in long, drooping clusters called catkins during spring. It grows well in any type of garden soil but is an especially good choice for a spot where soil has a high clay content and tends to hold water for long periods. If your soil has a high content of sand or gravel and drains quickly, adding some organic matter such as compost at planting can improve its ability to hold water and also increase its fertility.

Watering

• A young corkscrew willow tree benefits from supplemental watering during its first few years, especially during dry spells. The tree is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and leaf spot, so watering is best done with a soaker hose or by drip irrigation at the root zone, keeping foliage dry whenever possible. You could also add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch at the root zone to help conserve soil moisture. Choose a non-organic mulch such as pea stone or gravel to help prevent growth of fungal microorganisms.

Other Needs

• The corkscrew willow grows well in either full sun or partial shade. It benefits from late-winter or early-spring pruning when young to help develop a strong structure. Remove any weak branches that have narrow angles at their origins and cut back branches that originate near the base to elevate the tree's canopy. The tree is susceptible to several insect pests, such as aphids, lacebugs, borers and scale. Spray as needed with an insecticidal soap, diluted at a ratio of 5 tablespoons per gallon, to control aphids and lacebugs. Use a horticultural oil spray, available pre-diluted at garden centers, to control scale and borers. When using either spray, ensure that all surfaces of leaves, branches and trunk are completely wet and dripping with solution. Spray in the morning on a sunny day. The tree can also develop fungal problems such as blight and powdery mildew. These are best prevented by following good cultural practices, such as clearing debris from under the tree regularly and watering at the root zone while keeping foliage dry.