Weeping Willow Saplings: Assessing Bare Trunks Before Pruning

A Stevens County, WA, couple planted 20 dormant weeping willow saplings. New growth emerged only on lower branches, leaving the upper trunks bare. They wonder if they should cut off the bare portions.

Check for Life First

Scrape a small section of bark on the bare trunk. Green tissue underneath means the branch is alive and may leaf out later. Brown indicates dead wood at that point.

Pruning Strategy

• If green: Leave it alone. The tree may still produce leaves on the upper trunk.
• If brown: Work downward until you find green, then prune off the dead section.
• New leader: A side branch will eventually become the new central leader, straightening over time.

Patience is key—willows are resilient. Avoid the "palm tree" look by not topping prematurely.