How to Root Pussy Willow Cuttings Successfully

Two Easy Methods for Rooting

You have cuttings from a pussy willow tree and want to know how to get roots started. There are two simple, effective approaches:

Method 1: Direct Soil Planting

After the last frost, stick the cuttings directly into moist soil outdoors. They'll root naturally in place.

Method 2: Water Rooting

Place the cuttings in a vase of water. Change the water daily to prevent fouling. Roots will appear within a few days. Wait until the root system is well-developed before transplanting outdoors.

Key Tips for Success

• Use healthy, green cuttings about 6–8 inches long.
• Keep the rooting medium consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Provide bright, indirect light during rooting.
• Harden off rooted cuttings gradually before planting in full sun.

Pussy willows root readily, so you should have good results with either method.

— Tom