What's the closest I can plant this willow to the house and other trees without running into trouble?
This question is difficult to address from afar, and may best be addressed by someone who knows about the soil conditions and watertable on your specific site. You need to take into account where any water and sewer or septic lines are located. The given is that willows love and need large quantities of water and will get it no matter how far afield they must send their roots. A 50 foot tree may send roots out more than 100 feet. So, you need to determine the quality of soil and its depth. If the soil is poor or shallow the tree will send roots out farther. Also take into consideration your neighbours and their utilities.
Hi TRamey, I agree with the Guest. 100' is a good distance. Here's some helpful info. http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/trees/SALSPPA.pdf http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/WO017 http://www.mortonarb.org/research/treeroots.html Newt