[smallholder in the city]

Hi,
Has anyone ever made a living willow arbour for their garden?

It's something I'm thinking of doing this autumn. We have some decking that is bordered by beds/wildflower area and I'm thinking of positioning the arbour so you could sit under it on the decking. I've got a very basic book which has a lot of pictures and makes it look very straightforward but just wondered if anyone had any practical experience or advice on the best place to get the willow from (we're in SE London so Kent is our nearest countryside).

[doganjo]

My friend next door made a tree house for the children in willow - they just used cuttings from the willow growing along the bank of the stream that we had in the village.  If you need iot fast you can buy willow online, but otherwise short sticks will grow very easily.  I got loads from HappyHippy for myself and my friend as we have wet gardens and they have nearly all taken and are growing well.  This website can send you teh cuttings and have pictures of an arbour - http://mammothwillow.co.uk/shop/index.php?cPath=43&osCsid=7a5521e8525fce9b50f01bc15076764f

[HappyHippy]

I tried to do it (unfortunately my kids kept pulling up the willow  )
I've got LOTS of willow   I'll happilly post down some cuttings for you if you want them. I'd suggest getting them into pots somewhere to let the roots develop a bit then plant them next spring (this way if any don't take, you know before you start and don't have to worry about disturbing the others to plant new ones). It's worth saying though that you've got to think about the roots and how close to the house you plant them - you don't want to end up with structural problems  
If you'd like me to post some down just pm me your address and how many you want.
Karen

[smallholder in the city]

Thanks guys.
It's the opposite end of the garden from the house so should be ok.
Karen I'll do some calculations and be in touch.

[smallholder in the city]

Hmmm arbour or viking longship (see link) ?

http://www.windrushwillow.com/pages/living_viking.html

If I ask my other half I know what he'll choose.

[HappyHippy]

Oooooooooo I LIKE that ! and so will my Dad ( the resident 'tree hugger' ) might have to have a go at one of them ! 

[doganjo]

Oooooooooo I LIKE that ! and so will my Dad ( the resident 'tree hugger' ) might have to have a go at one of them ! 

We loved the one Carol made for the girls - we all used to go down to their garden and have picnics in it.