Willow is cut between the months of October/November (when the leaves have almost disapeared from view) until about February/March the following year. These rods can be replanted to create living structures and should be created between the beginning of January to mid-March to make sure that the rods have time to properly root themselves in the earth before the warm weather begins, therefore ensuring optimum growth and strength for the structure and its longetivity. All living willow structures do need plenty of watering in for their first few months of life to help them along, they also need to be maintained regularly as they grow.
Below are some photos of various living structures that I have created since 2006:
Dome and long Arch - National Environmental and Educational Centre, Knocksink Wood, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow 2006
Central dome and two entrance tunnels, St Saviours National School, Rathdrum, Co Wicklow March 2007 - this was a school project in the Nature Area undertaken with 3rd-6th Class pupils
Small Arbour - my garden March 2007 - we decked the central area, and added a band of weaving infront thus creating a wonderful area for peaceful retreat!
A Three Quarter Dome, planted February 2008, again, check back to see this in full leaf....
This is a Living Bentwood Chair in my garden March 2007, the frame of the structure is non-living with living rods used as the arms and the back of the chair, it has already started sprouting
LIVING WILLOW BOOKINGS:
Living Willow Bookings can be arranged for between December 2008 and March 2009 - any of the above options are available, as are any specific requests you may have. You can contact me and order any structure you wish for your garden, your Centre or your business - we also operate a 'sliding scale' of fees so please feel free to enquire!
Whatever structure you purchase includes one days maintenance free of charge, and guidance so that you can maintain the structure yourself afterwards. Maintenance can be booked yearly if required.
BOOK EARLY - it is a very short planting season, and i book up very quickly!!
Please contact me for further information on 0876597885 or mail me faolan07@yahoo.ie Thank You
