Today a willow specialist came into the garden to work on a project to stabilize the bank of the stream that runs through the garden. The man they hired in has been working on this project for several years now each year completing another stretch of the stream. He also does other projects like willow statues and woven baskets. I helped him today to install another section of willow retaining wall. First posts are pounded into the ground and these are used as braces to support the woven willow. Next the willow is wove in front and behind the posts to make a strong wall. The willow branches are shoved into the dirt of the bank to make good contact between the stick and the soil. Within a few months the willow will hopefully root and the stream will have a living retaining wall. The roots of the willow will also help stabilize the bank when they begin to grow. It was an interesting new concept one I had not heard of before. It was quite the opportunity to help create something aesthetically pleasing and something that will help conserve the stream.
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