We Have A Goat Willow Growing 15 Feet From The Side Of Our Cottage,it Is Now About 20 Ft High.

Question

We have pruned the tree by 3 to 5 feet every other year, while I was away my husband had tree surgeons reduce the overall size of the tree by at least 15 feet. Now it it is a collection of ugly stumps. Please can you tell me if the tree will ever recover and how long this could take , I loved that tree ! Many thanks

Answer 1

It should, only, take a year or two to regain its shape. In fact, it will probably have a better shape once it recovers.

Being a type of pussy willow, they tolerate heavy pruning with no problem.

Here are some article that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/pussy-willow/how-prune-pussy-willows.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/pussy-willow/growing-pussy-willows.htm