I found some nice fresh curly willow branches at a florist's, with
roots. Would it be better for me to plant the whole thing, even
though some of the branches have been cut off, and others seem to
be dying at their tips; or should I cut off little, totally
healthy branches and root them? I assume I could just stick them
in water and wait--at least that is their reputation....

Yes, this would be far from the house and any pipes, and I have a
pretty moist place to put this.

Thanks.
--
Jean B.