Make living willow Harlequin trees and growing hearts in this two hour workshop
Red Lodge Millennim Centre 10-12am
Harlequin trees are becoming increasingly popular and can be bought in garden centres in winter and early spring. In this workshop you will learn how to plant and weave your own Harlequin tree to take home and grow in a pot, or in the garden. Harlequin trees are planted straight into a pot, and remain in it for around a year before being replanted. Basic pots will be provided but if you would like a more elaborate pot please bring one along.
We will also make bare rooted living hearts in this workshop. These are simple to shape and can be planted in the garden, or in a pot, when you get home.
Willow is incredibly versatile and can be grown and woven into different shapes and designs. It roots quickly from a bare rod, and will start to grow and leaf in its first year. It then just needs to be woven and trimmed to help keep the shape. The tree can remain in a pot, or be planted outside. Willow is great for drying out wet areas and we recommend planting in a damp area of the garden.
The living willow planting season runs from December to late March-early April. If you would like to plant more trees at home we can advise on obtaining more willow for this.
There is no age limit but children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent.
Willow is a lovely medium to work with and most people find weaving relaxing and therapeutic. However, it can be quite hard on the fingers. We can find ways to alleviate this for most people, but if you have arthritis or other mobility issues you might want to discuss this with Toni first to see what help we can offer.
Tools will be provided but please bring:
A pot for your harlequin tree if you would like a more decorative pot - a 30-40 litre pot is ideal. The tree will need to remain in the pot until roots develop.
We will work indoors for this workshop and stop half way for tea/coffee and cake.
We are also running a fresh willow frame basket workshop on the same day. Book both workshops for a full day working with fresh cut willow and get a £5 discount.
