Touch Wood

‘Touch Wood’

Anyone who knows me well will tell you that I am guilty of over planting (and over use) of willow. I’ve planted architectural twisted willow, wove living willow domes and created bendy, winding fedges (a cross between a fence and a hedge). I’ve used it to make Christmas wreaths, plant wigwams and even created the odd wonky chicken. Baskets are still on my to do list.

I love the way its so easy to propagate and so quick to grow. And with over 400 species, so many different colours and forms to choose from.

As willow contains salicin, its bark is used as an anti-inflammatory and a painkiller. Our bodies convert it into salicyclic acid, which is one of the primary ingredients of asprin. Maybe that explains why my elderly dog would happily lap the water from the bucket of soaking willow.

Originating from Asia, the genus abounds with myths and legends from warding off evil spirits to housing elves and fairies. Hence the phrase ‘Touch wood’ to ask for luck from the mythical folk.

The weeping willow, Salix babylonica, even gets a mention in the Bible

By the rivers of Babylon we sat down and wept

when we remembered Zion.

There on the willow trees

we hung up our harps. (Psalm 137)

It also plays a key part in the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane. The legend goes that the universe was hatched from two eggs that were found in a willow tree. One egg became the sun and the other the earth. The story is celebrated each year with painted eggs (sounds familiar?).

As we head into Spring it seems appropriate to post one of my recent creations. The result of many sore fingers (some of that willow is not as bendy as you think), this was originally designed as a Christmas tree complete with lights and baubles, now it’s time for it to move into the garden and provide some support for one of the smaller climbers.