How much water does my willow need?

Eared willows are water lovers. The soil should feel like a wrung out sponge at all times, never dry or dusty.

Can I overwater my willow?

It is very difficult to overwater an eared willow. They are naturally adapted to damp, boggy conditions and thrive in wet soil.

Why is my eared willow drooping? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches below the surface.
Water the plant deeply if the soil is dry.
Check for signs of root damage or pests.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry to the touch, and the leaves look limp or wilted. This happens quickly if you miss a watering for more than 5 days.
What to do: Give the plant a deep soak immediately until the soil is saturated. Maintain a schedule of watering every 2 to 5 days depending on the heat.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant droops during the hottest part of the afternoon even if the soil is moist. The leaves may look slightly scorched at the edges.
What to do: Provide some afternoon shade if possible during extreme heat waves. Ensure the soil is covered with a layer of mulch to keep the roots cool.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your eared willow

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the plant stays droopy after a thorough watering, the roots may be damaged. If the leaves are crispy and brown, the damage may be permanent.

Stopping it coming back

Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture. Check the soil moisture every 2 days during the summer.

Eared willow: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eared willow and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

How much water does my willow need?: Eared willows are water lovers. The soil should feel like a wrung out sponge at all times, never dry or dusty.
Can I overwater my willow?: It is very difficult to overwater an eared willow. They are naturally adapted to damp, boggy conditions and thrive in wet soil.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my eared willow drooping?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your eared willow?