Upper Alki weeping willow tree in danger from too much of a good thing

| Environment | West Seattle news

Often, stories about saving trees involve trees in the path of development.

Not this one – a tree so wide and gangly, we have to show it to you on video rather than just a photo.

The threat to this weeping willow tree in Upper Alki is not development, but another d-word … drainage – according to its owner.

The tree is in Irene Trimble‘s yard in Upper Alki, along SW Spokane east of 59th SW. It’s a landmark – “I’ve given the community access to the tree for engagement, prom, and senior photos as well as wedding ceremonies at no charge to anyone. A lot of memories have been made here by folks in West Seattle.” She provided this photo of one couple:

Part of the tree hangs over her fence, and she’s let people into the yard to visit it.

But it’s dying because of too much underground water just inches below the south side of the yard after a shift in the flow, which she has been told is a natural phenomenon. Irene says an arborist estimates the tree will die in about a year unless the excess water is drained away and rerouted. She’s been told that can be done – for about $9,000.

A friend suggested she try crowdfunding to cover some of that cost, and set up this GoFundMe campaign.

It describes the tree as “ancient” – that’s a relative term, as willows go; Irene says this one is believed to be at least a century old. She bought the property six years ago, and says it didn’t come with any history of the tree, such as who planted it there and why.

All that’s clear is that too much of a good thing – water – is killing it. And for those who know it and appreciate it, Irene says they have a chance to help save it. At least its human fans do – it has wildlife fans too, like this video Irene provided from a duck family’s visit:

Irene says the tree is registered with Plant Amnesty as one of Seattle’s remaining “heritage trees,” and if she is able to save it, it could live to be cherished by at least another generation.

Tree Fan March 15, 2026 (9:32 pm)

Irene has been an incredible steward of this magical tree, and endlessly generous in sharing her special space. Thank you Irene! We will certainly do what we can to help save the tree for future generations.

wet willows March 15, 2026 (10:37 pm)

Don’t willows basically grow in stream banks?

I’m thinking of the one on upper Longfellow creek that’s basically swimming in a beaverpond (happily, for years). I’m not an arborist and I’m sure the devil’s in
the details, but I think I’d look into a second opinion if this were my tree.

I hope they figure it out, though, looks really lovely.

k March 16, 2026 (6:46 am)

There are different species of willow trees. The one that is most common in the PNW frequently grows in forests, alongside other trees (not the same species as this tree, just sharing the info). The golden willow (this species) likes moist, but well-drained soil.
West Marge March 17, 2026 (12:18 pm)

Second opinion!

Name March 16, 2026 (6:39 am)

Definitely get more opinions.

Jennie March 16, 2026 (7:10 am)

If the water is not draining out of the soil, then it may be creating an anaerobic (lack of oxygen) environment around the roots. From Google search, “Anaerobic soil occurs when oxygen levels drop critically low, usually due to waterlogging, severe compaction, or excessive organic matter, causing plants to suffocate and rot. It is identified by a foul, swampy, or rotten egg smell, a mushy consistency, and dark colors. To improve it, improve drainage, add organic matter to loosen soil structure, and avoid overwatering. “

Rainer March 16, 2026 (9:54 am)

Might I suggest that all those couples who have had their photo taken in front of this tree chip in to help save it? Every amount, no matter how small, will help.

Emma March 16, 2026 (11:14 am)

I’ve spent time under this willow and it really is something special. It’s one of those neighborhood spots that quietly becomes part of people’s memories. I’m grateful Irene has shared it with the community for photos and gatherings over the years, my prom photos being one of many occasions and I cannot thank her enough. I hope the effort to save it succeeds, it would be a real loss to see it go. This willow is the true definition of the giving tree <3

junctioneer March 16, 2026 (1:13 pm)

What a great story and desire. I wonder–these trees are known for being very short-lived, right? 30-60 years? There seems like a very high chance that after spending $9,000 this could die very soon in other ways? This seems like a very natural thing.

Steph March 16, 2026 (4:34 pm)

West seattle is the best. And people like this make it just so 💗

Jen Suemnicht March 16, 2026 (8:00 pm)

Wow! Thank you for bringing this to our attention! I love this tree! I used to live around the corner and would walk by whenever possible and have told many friends and neighbors to walk by and feel the energy! ❤️ We refer to it as the avatar tree of life! 🌳

Danielle March 17, 2026 (12:16 pm)

I’m very confused. There is a water feature all around the base of the tree. Is the water feature what needs to be drained?

WSB March 17, 2026 (1:00 pm)

No. The pond (which is sealed) does not touch the tree’s roots.

Local Arborist March 19, 2026 (11:13 am)

I am a certified Arborist of 30+ years and have driven past this tree for decades.Glancing at this Willow from my car today I find it hard to believe it will be dead within a year.Definitely get a second opinion.Any tree company that moves straight to a 9k removal job might not be looking at all available options such as retrenchment pruning practices based on veteran tree care studies out of UK.Definitely get a second and maybe a third opinion

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