Shrub willows grow fast, always produce a large number of small stems, require low inputs of fertilizer or pesticides, and vigorously resprout after every harvest for more than 20 years. Dormant unrooted cuttings are planted mechanically in the spring and the first harvest occurs 3-4 years later. Weed control is critical during the first two years of growth, but after closing canopy, there is little additional maintenance required. Shrub willow can grow productively on marginal, poorly drained sites that are not suitable for row crops.