We have designed and built many living willow projects. From a small “fedge” to a kids’ playground, every one has been unique. Since we started planting our own willow in 2010 we have used home-grown willow to create fences, domes, dragons and mazes.
Our biggest living willow project to date was for Somerleyton Hall in 2013. We designed and built a living willow playground. The theme is dragons and nests. It includes a maze – once you get to the middle you discover the nest and eggs of the dragon. There is also a turret built in our fencing style. Finally an area with a dragon’s head and wings for the kids to explore. Quite a lot of pruning has to be done!!
Liz has been into many schools and worked with the pupils to plant and shape willow domes and tunnels. It’s a very satisfying and educational activity, many pupils come back at the end of the day to show their grown-ups what they have created. When the pupils help with the living willow they feel a sense of ownership and are careful with the young willow as it establishes and ensure that it has plenty of water.
We also sell living willow when it is in season – after the leaves have dropped off and before new growth starts. This is also the time we do our planting jobs. The main variety we grow is Viminalis, but we also grow some more colourful ones such as Helen’s Yellow.
We are often asked how to care for living willow once it has been planted. Please see attached document for advice: Aftercare2016
