Cold presoak of dormant cuttings
For dormant willow and cottonwood, partially submerging the cuttings in cold water resulted in higher success rate in rooting. Soaking in warm water produced slime on the cutting and less rooting. The cold soak was tried up to 31 days. Best results appeared to be a partial soak lasting 14 days. Increased water in the cuttings seems to aid in the formation of roots.
link to pdf
Effects of pre-plant soaking treatments on hardwood cuttings of peachleaf willow. Derek Tilley, and J. Chris Hoag, Jan 2008, Riparian Wetland Project Information Series No 24
