Q.Willow disease
I have a variety of willows in my garden, all of which are now suffering from some kind of blight which is causing the leaves and tips of shoots to brown and shrivel though not drop off. Ordinarily, I would cut out the infected growth but given the time of year and the lack of long dry spells, I’m not sure this is good option just now. Is it safe to wait until the winter dormancy to pollard them and hope that eradicates the problem?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
I would suggest waiting until winter, however, this will not completely solve the problem. I have a method That I use for both soil infections, and insect problems. It is safe for use any time, and you can use it as much, and often as you would like. If you cannot get to all of the trees with the spray portion, then that is ok. But do not Leave out the soil priming. This is an important factor in killing fungal infections.
It is as follows: First, you will want to prime the soil with dolomitic lime, then spread wettable sulfur to Kill off any infection in the soil. I Also like to spray the plant itself. Mix a few drops of one or more of these ingredients into warm water with a spoonful of coconut oil: Rosemary oil, lavender oil, neem oil, garlic oil, cinnamon extract/oil and for really bad cases, also add clove oil.
For more information refer to this Link: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/willow/
Thanks very much for the tips; I'll certainly try those out. Do you happen to know if the soil treatments are in any way toxic to animals; I have a wee rescue cat who spends a lot of time in the garden?
