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Reviving a "Dead" Willow: Prune Brittle Wood, Watch for Borers

A 4‑ft willow in the UK shows pussy willow buds on some branches but most are brittle. Willows are resilient. Prune out all dead (brittle) wood—it won’t improve health but cleans appearance. Underlying issues likely: borers (common in willows) or site problems (compaction, anaerobic soil). Without local pest ID, synthetic control is risky; many opt to replace. Lichen on bark is harmless.

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