Content
Whether or not a willow tree blooms in spring is a controversial question because it was asked incorrectly. Most of the species bloom their earrings with the arrival of the warm spring sun. The formation of inflorescences in willows occurs even earlier than in snowdrops.
Is the willow in bloom?
Returning to the question, it should be said that willow is a flowering plant, but this is only true for some species. The crop is pollinated by the wind, catkins are easily transported by air flow, since there is no foliage on the crown yet.
Willow flowering period
The flowering time of willows is approximately the same, occurring in early spring or even in winter - in February. An increase in temperature to zero indicates that the plant is ready to form catkins. By that time, there were still snowdrifts on the street.
Although the Willow family has existed for millions of years, it cannot be called tenacious. The culture quickly lives out its life, but before that - thanks to the lush flowering in the spring - it forms a lot of fruits, ready to develop in almost any conditions.
What species bloom
White and silver willows become guests in many gardens. They are large trees with wide branches and dense foliage.
Leaf blades can reach more than 15 cm in length.The color depends on the lighting, usually whitish. The trunk diameter is up to 100 cm, the wood is brown.
Brittle willow is also subject to flowering. The process also begins in the spring. The tree got its name because of its fragile branches that break when touched carelessly or due to strong winds.
Another flowering variety of willow is the Hakuro-Nishiki. Young leaves of the plant have a pink, light green tint. The crop acquires a decorative appearance after monthly shaping.
The tree is trimmed often - about six times during spring and summer.
The weeping willow is also blooming. Budding begins in the first ten days of spring, before the buds break. The plant is grown in all regions and is one of the most famous members of the family. The tree can reach more than 25 m in height.
Goat willow is a small shrub that is widespread in the East. Flowering occurs in early March, in the north - closer to mid-spring. At the same time, the branches are covered with fluffy buds, emitting a sweet aroma.
How willow blooms
To reproduce, willows do not need the help of insects; in the spring, pollen is carried by the wind. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of all seeds will sprout. Suitable areas for growth are coastal strips of water bodies.
Most representatives have small but neat buds, usually golden or white. The diameter of the flower reaches about 4 cm. Male specimens are identified by two pistils, females by one. The plant is bisexual.
Conclusion
Willow blooms very beautifully in spring. Not all types produce gold earrings. The flowers have a common structure - an oblong fluffy lump of white or yellow color that produces pollen in early spring.