This piece of wood is from a white willow that used to stand next to my apartment. The landlord didnt like it and cut it down last year. I saved a chunk of wood and thought i would make a carving out of it in remembrance. Yesterday I found out that it has grown a few leaves (maybe due to spring light and temperature). As it seems that it refuses to die, I wonder if it is still possible to save it. Many thanks!
(Yesterday I put it in a plate of water, but it does not seem to be taking water in so far.)
by switchyswing
3 Comments
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Google search says:
**How to Propagate a Large Willow Trunk Cutting**
**Prepare the Cutting:**
**Wound the Base:** For a thick piece, lightly rough up or scrape the bark on the bottom 4–6 inches of the trunk to expose the green cambium layer. This creates more surface area for roots to emerge.
**Identify Orientation:** Ensure you know which end is the bottom (the end that was closest to the roots) to prevent planting it upside down.
**Choose Your Rooting Method:**
**Direct Ground Planting (Recommended for large pieces):** Bury **3/4 of the log** (about 9–10 inches of your 13-inch piece) directly into moist soil. This prevents the large wood section from drying out before roots can form.
**The “Bucket” Method:** Place the trunk in a bucket or trashcan with several inches of water. Keep it in a sunny spot and change the water frequently to prevent rot. Once a dense root system develops, transplant it into the ground.
**Critical Aftercare:**
**Water Constantly:** Large cuttings have higher energy reserves but require significant hydration to support their mass. The soil must stay permanently moist or even boggy during the first year.
**Manage Growth:** You may see leaves appear almost immediately, but these are fueled by the wood’s stored energy, not roots. Do not let the soil dry out during this “false growth” phase.
I’d love it if you’re successful in getting that to root! Good luck !!!