In 2010/11 we will be planting several small demonstration plots in conjunction with the Royal Horticultural Society. The aim of the initiative is to demonstrate the versatility of willows as a renewable source of material for craft projects and useful items for the garden or allotment. Three trials will be planted at Harlow Carr, Hyde Hall and Wisley in 2010 and the set will be completed with the planting of Rosemoor in 2011. Schools, individuals and other interested groups can grow their own plots by buying this willow collection. You will get all the cuttings, a range of designs with full instructions, a mulch mat and a CD containing the 101 things to do with willows activities. There are several designs you can choose from ranging from a small square block measuring 5 x 5 metres. More elaborate designs which are pleasing to the eye and showcase the ornamental qualities of the ten chosen varieties will need a bit more space. These include The Propeller (a circle with a 6m diameter), The Diamond (8.5 x 4m), The Star and The Spiral Galaxy(both 10m diameter). The 10 selected varieties range from small whippy willows that could be used to make willow stars or some fine basketry to large biomass willows that would be excellent for hurdles, living willow sculptures, plant supports, and willow whistles. They are all good, consistent performers and include: - S. purpurea 'Green Dicks'
- S. purpurea 'Dark Dicks'
- S. alba 'Vitellina'
- S. x rubens 'Basfordiana'
- S. x rubens 'Flanders Red'
- S. triandra 'Black Maul'
- S. x mollissima 'Q83'
- S. candida
- S. daphnoides 'Continental Purple'
- S. x erythroflexuosa 'Golden Curls'
This collection will provide delight whilst growing and every year produce materials for you to use in all sorts of fun activities. | 
