Recently Planted Pussy Willow Not Getting New Leaves

Question From: Sidney, Ohio, United States
Q: Recently planted weeping pussy willow, had pussy willows on branches when bought but not getting any leaves after 2 months. Is it dieing, need pruning, grafts dead? Trunk has small sprouts but weeping branches aren't leafing out.

A: Sounds like it died back to the graft. GIve it another two weeks and if no leaves appear return it to the place of purchase. Best Nancy

Q: If leaves do appear which I doubt or will be very few, should I prune branches back and how short can I prune them? Thank you for your advice.

A: Depends on how it leafs out. I the leaves are sparse I would cut back hard to three or 4 inches above the graft. Best Nancy