How to Plant and Grow Willow
Willow is an incredible plant, prized for its versatility and sustainability. This year, I’m embarking on my journey to growing willow in partnership with a local landowner. This blog post marks the first step in documenting that journey. I’m excited to share what I learn, the challenges I face, and the joy of cultivating this remarkable plant. Here’s everything I’ve discovered so far about planting, growing, and maintaining willow.
Although I have not already grown a willow bed from start to finish myself, I do have experience in coppicing and pollarding willow grown by others. I will also be replanting some of the willows I have harvested. Recently, I pollarded three large Harlequin Trees that I planted on the Birtley Estate in Bramley over three years ago. Using both Flanders Red and Caledendron varieties, the growth this year has been amazing! Inspired by their success, I’m planning to plant more Harlequin Trees on the estate. They are not only visually striking but also provide a great harvest.
Willow is a fast-growing plant that thrives in damp soil and sunny conditions. It is low maintenance once established and regenerates after coppicing, making it a sustainable and productive addition to your garden or smallholding. As a beginner, I’m drawn to its versatility and potential to support biodiversity while providing material for various projects.
For healthy willow growth, you need:
🌱 Moisture-Retentive Soil – Willow thrives in damp conditions, making it ideal for wetland areas, riverbanks, or gardens with poor drainage.
🌱 Fertile Soil – Adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure will boost soil nutrients.
🌱 pH Range – Willow prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5 to 7.0). If unsure, conduct a soil test and adjust accordingly.
🌱 Well-Drained Yet Moist Soil – While willow loves moisture, avoid areas prone to standing water. Raised beds or adding sand to heavy clay soil can help with drainage.
🌱 Loamy Soil – A balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay ensures the right blend of moisture retention and aeration.
When selecting a location for willow planting, keep the following in mind:
🌞 Full Sunlight – Willow requires plenty of sun for optimal growth. Avoid shady areas.
🌿 Weed Control – Weeds compete for water and nutrients. You can suppress them by:
🦌 Protecting Your Crop – If deer are a problem in your area, consider deer-proof fencing, as they enjoy nibbling on young willow shoots.
Willow should be planted during its dormant season (December to April) using cuttings from mature plants.
1️⃣ Prepare the cuttings – Use 12–14 inch sections of green willow rods, making sure they have been freshly harvested. 2️⃣ Mark your rows – Use pegs and string to ensure straight rows for even growth. 3️⃣ Create holes in the soil – Use a screwdriver or spike to make planting holes through your groundsheet (if using one). 4️⃣ Insert the cuttings – Push 12 inches of the cutting into the soil, leaving at least three buds visible above the surface. 5️⃣ Spacing:
Planting willow close together encourages tall, straight growth with fewer side branches, making it ideal for weaving and crafting.
While coppicing is the traditional method of cutting willow back to ground level to encourage multiple new shoots, pollarding is an alternative approach that involves cutting the willow higher up, usually at around 4 to 6 feet above the ground. This technique is particularly useful in areas where protecting new shoots from browsing animals, such as deer, is a concern. Pollarding also creates an attractive, sculptural effect in the landscape while still providing a steady harvest of flexible rods for weaving and other uses. If you’re deciding which method is best for your needs, keep an eye out for our next blog post: Coppicing vs. Pollarding – Which is Right for You?
Coppicing is the process of cutting willow back to ground level to encourage the plant to grow more shoots.
✅ Let the willow grow for one full year before coppicing. ✅ In the following winter (November–February), cut the shoots down to the base. ✅ This strengthens the root system, increases yield, and promotes straight rod growth.
After several years, the base of the plant will develop a widened stool (a head where multiple rods emerge). This results in higher yields each season for up to 5 years.
Pro Tip: You can use coppiced rods as new cuttings to expand your willow crop at no extra cost!
📅 Best Time to Harvest: November to February (when the leaves have fallen). ✂ How to Harvest: 1️⃣ Use sharp secateurs or loppers to snip rods at the base, ensuring you don’t damage the plant’s head. 2️⃣ Sort the rods into bundles based on their length (4ft, 5ft, 6ft, etc.). 3️⃣ Drying (if needed): Store in an upright position in a dry barn or shed for several months.
Green willow can be woven immediately but may shrink as it dries. Drying ensures a consistent weaving material.
Professional basket makers grow specific willow varieties for their flexibility, strength, and visual appeal. Here are some favourites from well-known UK basket makers who sell Willow cuttings:
Growing willow is a rewarding and sustainable practice that provides a renewable source of material for crafts, weaving, and ecological projects. As I start this journey I’m excited to learn more and share insights along the way. My previous experience with coppicing and pollarding, including my work with Harlequin Trees on the Birtley Estate, has given me confidence in this endeavor. By following the right planting techniques, maintaining good soil health, and choosing the best varieties, you too can create a thriving willow bed that lasts for years.
Would you like to join me on this journey? Let me know in the comments below! 🌿💚