The tri color willow, also known as Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’, is a beautiful ornamental shrub known for its colorful pink, white, and green foliage. This fast-growing willow can reach up to 10 feet tall and wide within just a few years. If you’re considering adding a tri color willow to your landscape, you’re probably wondering – just how fast does this striking plant grow?
Growth Rate of Tri Color Willow
The tri color willow is one of the fastest growing willow varieties. When provided with ideal growing conditions, it can grow up to 3 feet per year. Growth will be most vigorous in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Here’s a look at the first few years of growth you can expect from your tri color willow:
| Year | Growth |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | 3-4 feet |
| Year 2 | 6-8 feet |
| Year 3 | 8-10 feet |
As you can see, this willow grows rapidly in its first few years. Once established, the growth rate slows down to around 1-2 feet per year. With proper pruning and care, you can maintain your tri color willow at a smaller size as well.
Factors That Affect Growth
Several key factors affect the growth rate of tri color willows:
Sun Exposure
The tri color willow does best in full sun – at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. With more sun exposure, this plant will grow more vigorously. Less sun may result in slower growth.
Soil Conditions
This willow prefers moist, fertile soil that is well-draining. Heavy clay or dry soils will inhibit fast growth. Amending soil with compost can improve drainage and nutrients for better growth.
Watering
Consistent watering is important, especially while young willows are establishing. Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings. Too much or too little water can stunt growth.
Fertilization
Applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer will promote faster growth. Organic options like compost and fish emulsion also supply nutrients.
Pruning
Regular pruning removes dead wood and shapes growth. But excessive pruning can reduce the plant’s vigor and ability to grow rapidly.
Growing Conditions by Region
Growth rates for the tri color willow can vary based on climate and geography. Here’s a look at estimated size in the first 3 years for different regions:
| Region | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast | 2-3 feet | 4-6 feet | 6-8 feet |
| Southeast | 4-5 feet | 8-10 feet | 10+ feet |
| Midwest | 3-4 feet | 6-8 feet | 8-10 feet |
| Northwest | 2-3 feet | 4-6 feet | 6-8 feet |
| Southwest | 3-4 feet | 6-8 feet | 8-10 feet |
Warmer climates in the Southeast and Southwest tend to promote faster growth. Colder regions see slower initial growth but healthy sizes within 3 years.
Tips for Faster Growth
If you want your tri color willow to reach its full size quickly, here are some tips to accelerate growth:
- Plant in spring so the willow has the full growing season to establish.
- Choose a spot with full sun or at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
- Prepare soil by mixing in several inches of compost or well-rotted manure.
- Water deeply 2-3 times per week for the first season.
- Apply a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer each spring.
- Replenish mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and nutrients.
- Prune lightly in late winter to shape growth.
With the right site, soil, water, and care, you can maximize growth rate and enjoy a large tri color willow within just 3 years!
When Growth Slows Down
The tri color willow grows rapidly when young, but slows down as it matures. You can expect growth to decline as the shrub reaches the following ages:
| Willow’s Age | Expected Growth Rate |
|---|---|
| 1-3 years | 3 feet per year |
| 4-7 years | 2 feet per year |
| 8-10 years | 1 foot per year |
| 10+ years | Less than 12 inches per year |
To keep your aging willow looking its best, prune regularly to remove dead branches, fertilize to maintain vigor, and watch for pests/diseases. Eventually you will need to remove very old plants.
When to Expect Full Size
The tri color willow reaches its maximum size at maturity, which takes about 10 years. You can expect the shrub to achieve full size by this age:
| Mature Height | Time to Reach Full Size |
|---|---|
| 10 feet | 10 years |
In ideal conditions, tri color willows may max out at 10-15 feet tall x 10-12 feet wide. Give them adequate space to grow to their full dimensions.
Keeping Your Willow Smaller
Regular pruning is key if you want to restrict the size of your tri color willow. Here are some effective pruning techniques:
- Pinch or trim new shoots in spring to stunt growth.
- Cut back longer branches by 1/3 each year in late winter.
- Remove old, overgrown stems down to the base to renew growth.
- Prune to shape, removing inward-facing branches for better structure.
- Maintain at no more than 2/3 its natural size for your climate.
With proper annual pruning, you can maintain a healthy, attractive tri color willow for years at a more compact size.
Signs of Fast Growth
How can you tell if your tri color willow is growing rapidly? Look for these signs of fast growth:
- New shoots appearing and quickly extending several inches in one season.
- Abundant lush green foliage that looks full and healthy.
- Having to prune branches significantly each year to keep it contained.
- A base that thickens quickly with age and size.
- Reaching its expected mature size within 5 years.
If you notice your willow putting out 2 feet or more per year, it means your care and growing conditions are ideal for fast growth.
Troubleshooting Slow Growth
If your tri color willow is growing slower than expected, a few issues could be the cause:
- Insufficient sunlight – willows need at least 6 hours of direct sun.
- Underwatering – let soil dry slightly between waterings.
- Overwatering – drainage issues can cause root rot.
- Poor soil – amend clay or sandy soils to improve.
- Nutrient deficiency – fertilize in spring and midsummer.
- Excessive pruning – avoid overthinning branches.
- Harsh winters – protect from wind and intense cold.
Address any care issues and be patient. Growth should improve with time as the willow establishes.
Conclusion
The tri color willow is a fast grower, capable of adding several feet in height each year when young. Mature dimensions of 10 feet tall x wide can be reached in 5-10 years with proper care and growing conditions. Growth slows down significantly as the willow ages. Regular pruning is required to restrict size and maintain health. Monitor your plant for signs of vigorous growth, troubleshooting any issues to ensure your willow reaches its full beauty and stature.