Salix Hakuro Nishiki

Lorna

I have two Salix Hakuro Nishiki standard trees planted about five feet apart separated by a concrete path with fairly deep foundations. They have been in the same location for about four years and have both always performed really well, but this year one is splendid as usual and the other appears to be dying. The leaves are dropping off, some branches have no leaves at all and it hasn't had the lovely new feathery white/pink leaves. The birds use the tree to perch in before heading for their feeders and there a few ants climbing up the branches feeding on aphids.  I have checked for Honey Fungus and Phytophthora, but can see no obvious symptoms. Do you have any advice? Many thanks.

Obelixx

Thirst.   Last year was a hot, dry summer and this spring has been hot and dry so ground water available to plants like willows has been compromised.  Try loosening the soil around its base and pouring on bucketfuls of water - at least 10litres - every 2 or 3 days and do it slowly so it seeps in rather than running off.    I'd make sure the other gets at least a bucketful a week too, just in case. 

Lorna

Thank you Obelixx.  I'll try that on both trees.  I have already started watering the problem tree, but hadn't loosened the soil.  Good idea to do both. They don't look like twins any longer!