When and how to prune Salix integra 'Hakuro-nishiki'?

The shrimp willow (Salix integra) is a bush appreciated for its pink young shoots and its variegated foliage of white and green. Whether it is a bushy shrimp willow or a standard shrimp willow, annual pruning helps maintain its compact shape and encourages beautiful colourful regrowth. Discover when and how to prune the shrimp willow to fully enjoy its ornamental qualities.

Note: At Promesse de fleurs, you can find the 'Flamingo®' shrimp willow and the 'Hakuro Nishiki' shrimp willow.

Why prune the shrimp willow?

Pruning a shrimp willow is not just about aesthetics. This operation stimulates the formation of young shoots with more intense colours while maintaining a regular habit. Without intervention, the bush loses its density and takes on a disordered shape.

When to prune the shrimp willow?

Pruning the shrimp willow is done at two times:

• At the end of winter, between February and April, just before the resumption of growth. This formative pruning helps structure the plant and stimulates the appearance of young shoots. It should be done every year to keep your willow looking good.
• In summer, in June or July, only if necessary, to restore a nice shape and encourage a second wave of colourful shoots.
• Avoid pruning during frost or extreme heat.

How to prune a shrimp willow?

Some tips before pruning the shrimp willow

• To preserve the health and beauty of your shrimp willow, use clean and disinfected pruning shears (or shears) to avoid the transmission of fungi and diseases from one plant to another.
• The plant tolerates severe pruning very well, especially at the end of winter, but it is preferable to intervene regularly and progressively each year.

Pruning the shrimp willow as a bush

The bushy shrimp willow, planted alone or in a group, should be pruned quite severely each year to maintain a compact and dense habit. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Cut back the branches by about half, cutting above a well-formed bud or a crossing of two branches.
2. Remove weak, poorly oriented, or damaged shoots.
3. Eliminate dead wood and branches that cross in the centre.
4. Lightly aerate the heart of the bush to encourage light.

This pruning allows the plant to produce new, more colourful shoots and ensures harmonious development.

Pruning the shrimp willow on a stem

The shrimp willow on a stem, often grown in pots or in the ground, requires regular pruning each year to maintain its round and balanced head. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Prune the branches that exceed the shape of the head, making a clean cut.
2. Thin out the centre of the crown if it becomes too dense.
3. Remove the suckers that appear at the base and along the trunk, as they weaken the plant and harm its silhouette.
   

The timing and method of pruning a shrimp willow on a stem also depend on its vigour. The younger it is, the more regular pruning promotes a beautiful structure. Over time, this intervention helps maintain an elegant habit and well-provided foliage.