Planting living willow involves inserting willow stems (rods or whips) directly into the ground where they will take root and grow.
Creating beautiful, living willow structures like fences, tunnels, or sculptures is a rewarding process that begins with proper planting. The key is to ensure the willow rods can establish a strong root system and begin to grow.
Essential Steps for Planting Living Willow
Successfully planting living willow requires a few crucial steps to give the rods the best chance of survival and growth.
Preparing the Ground and Rods
Before inserting the willow rods, adequate preparation is vital.
- Prepare the ground: Ensure the soil is moist and weed-free. Willow loves water, especially when establishing.
- Prepare the rods: Choose healthy, fresh willow rods. The thickness can vary depending on the desired structure, but typically range from pencil-thin whips to thicker stakes.
Planting the Rods
Inserting the rods correctly is fundamental.
- Make holes: Use an old screwdriver, metal rod, or similar tool to make holes first. This prevents damaging the soft bark and cambium layer when pushing the willow into the soil.
- Insert the rods: Push the rods or whips (willow stems) 30cm (12in) or more into the ground. This ensures enough of the rod is buried to develop roots and find moisture. Deeper planting can be beneficial in drier conditions.
Structuring Your Living Willow
Depending on the complexity and purpose of your structure (fence, tunnel, etc.), you'll need to consider spacing and support.
- Angled Planting: To create woven patterns or solid barriers, you may need to plant rods at an angle.
- Plant half the rods at an angle of 45° at a distance of about 25cm (10in) apart.
- The remaining rods are typically planted at a matching opposite angle (also 45°) about 25cm away from the first, allowing them to cross over.
- Adding Solidity: For larger or more robust structures, consider adding extra support.
- Consider including four rods woven loosely together every 2m (6½ft) for solidity. These thicker bundles act like support posts within the living structure.
Example Planting Layout (Simple Fence)
Here's a basic idea for a simple woven willow fence using angled planting:
| Step | Description | Spacing/Angle |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Prepare ground | Clear weeds, ensure moisture. | N/A |
| 2. Make initial holes | Use a tool to create holes for the first row of rods. | Holes ~25cm (10in) apart |
| 3. Plant first set of angled rods | Insert rods into holes, minimum 30cm (12in) deep. | 45° angle, 25cm (10in) spacing |
| 4. Make second set of holes | Create holes offset from the first set. | Holes ~25cm (10in) apart |
| 5. Plant second set of angled rods | Insert rods into holes, minimum 30cm (12in) deep. | 45° angle (opposite direction), 25cm (10in) spacing |
| 6. Weave crossing rods | Gently weave the crossing rods together to form a diamond pattern. | N/A |
| 7. Add support rods (optional) | Bundle and weave four rods together for extra strength. | Every 2m (6½ft) |
Post-Planting Care
After planting, consistent moisture is the most critical factor for success. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, until the willow is well-established and showing signs of growth. Keeping the base weed-free also helps reduce competition for water and nutrients.
For more detailed information on living willow structures and ongoing care, you can visit the RHS website.
