Green Thumb Corner

The Pussy Willow, Salix discolor, this form of Pussy Willow has silver catkins. This fast growing shrub is suitable for wet areas grow well in almost any soil. They require full sun to thrive, but will survive in the shade as well. As with most willows, they do best when given lots of water. Although they can be allowed to grow unpruned, the plant will benefit from regular pruning after blooming. Flowers form on the previous season's growth, not on new growth so do not prune until the flowers have faded. For early bloom, cut branches of pussy willows may be brought in and set in a water filled vase in a sunny window anytime after the middle of January. The catkins will develop and make a nice display for a considerable time. This is the hardiest Pussy Willow that there is.

The French Pussy Willow, Salix caprea, grows well in almost any soil but it is a good idea to supplement it with peat moss, leaf mold or compost. They require full sun to thrive, but will survive in the shade as well. As with most willows, they do bes

The Pink Pussy Willow, Salix discolor rosea, this form of Pussy Willow has pale pink catkins. This fast growing shrub is suitable for wet areas grow well in almost any soil. They require full sun to thrive, but will survive in the shade as well. As with most willows, they do best when given lots of water. Although they can be allowed to grow unpruned, the plant will benefit from regular pruning after blooming. Flowers form on the previous season's growth, not on new growth so do not prune until the flowers have faded. For early bloom, cut branches of pussy willows may be brought in and set in a water filled vase in a sunny window anytime after the middle of January. The catkins will develop and make a nice display for a considerable time.

The Silver Pussy Willow, Salix chaenomeloides, is a handsome shrub with large red flower buds that develop into silky pink catkins. Reddish brown leaves mature to a dark blue green. This easy-to-grow willow has 2-1/2- to 3-inch-long catkins that emerge in early spring from dark red buds. At first silvery gray, the catkins take on a pink cast as they age. Equally significant are the rich mahogany-red stems, which add interest to the garden in winter. The plant prefers a sunny location and moist, well-drained soil.