A “fedge” – a hybrid of a fence and a hedge is one of the most sustainable and visually distinctive features you can add to a British garden. Unlike conventional timber fencing, which gradually degrades and requires replacement, a living willow structure becomes stronger and denser over time.
As it matures, a willow fedge provides privacy, acts as a natural windbreak, improves soil health, and creates a valuable habitat for birds and insects. It is both a practical boundary and a living landscape feature.
Choosing the Right Willow
Not all willow varieties are suitable for weaving and structural planting. For a durable and long-lasting fedge, flexible growth and rapid regeneration are essential qualities.
The most commonly recommended variety is Salix viminalis (Osier Willow). It produces long, straight, and highly pliable rods, making it ideal for weaving into stable lattice patterns. Its vigorous growth also ensures quick establishment.
For added visual interest, particularly during winter, consider mixing in Salix alba ‘Vitellina’. This variety is known for its bright golden-yellow stems, which provide colour even when the fence is leafless.
Planting Season and Technique
The most important rule when planting willow is timing. Willow rods should always be planted during dormancy. In the UK, the optimal planting window runs from late November through early March, when the plant’s energy is stored in the stem.
Planting is straightforward: push the rods directly into prepared soil to a depth of at least 20 cm. The soil should be moist but well-drained, as willow roots establish quickly when water is available.
For structure and visual appeal, many gardeners use a diamond lattice weave. Pairs of rods are crossed diagonally and tied at the intersections. This pattern creates strength, resists wind damage, and remains attractive even in winter.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
The first growing season is the most critical. Willow is a water-loving plant, and regular watering throughout the first summer is essential, especially during dry spells.
Keep the base of the fedge free from weeds and grass to reduce competition for moisture and nutrients. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Once established, maintenance becomes minimal. An annual trim during winter dormancy helps control height and thickness. The cut rods, known as withies, can be reused to repair the fence, reinforce weak areas, or start new weaving and garden projects.
With proper planting and care, a living willow fence can last for decades, evolving into a resilient, ecological boundary that blends structure, function, and natural beauty.