TUESDAY EDITION OF "ASK THE ARBORIST"

In todays edition of "Ask the Arborist" our featured tree is the Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica).  Also referred to as the Babylon Willow tree, having its early history in China.  If you are looking for a fast growing shade tree; folks this is it!  The Weeping Willow can quickly reach heights of 60 - 80 feet.  My experience has not been all that favorable for this tree.  As an Urban Forester/ Licensed Arborist I have noted Weeping Willows to be inherently weak wooded and prone to excessive amounts of decay.  Also the lifespan of Weeping Willows is only about 40 years.  Over the years I have consulted with many landowners who had no idea of the enormous beast Weeping Willows will become in a very short period of time.  Weeping willow trees love water and feel at home around lakes or wet areas.  Research indicates Weeping Willows can consume 50 - 100 gallons of water per day during hot summer days.
Stay tuned to more editions with "Ask the Arborist'
Your local Urban Forester / Arborist is available for questions? Post here or e-mail Jeff Cowden    jeff@yackoandsons.com