Date Added: 22/06/2018 @ 10:04am

At The Sign Maker, we’re proud of our efforts to care for the countryside. As highlighted on our Caring for the Countryside page, we’ve planted over 1,500 willow and poplar trees across the farm. This initiative serves several purposes. Firstly, it creates valuable habitats for local wildlife while also providing a sustainable source of logs for our biomass boiler, making our energy use even more eco-friendly. Additionally, the trees act as natural windbreaks, which are especially useful on our breezy site. These sheltered areas offer a welcome respite, allowing you to fully enjoy the sun’s warmth.

Willow

We’ve carefully selected various types of willow and poplar to suit different needs. For the willow, we’ve chosen a specific biomass hybrid variety, ideal for producing wood fuel. This fast-growing hybrid can be harvested in as little as four years, making it perfect for sustainable energy production. For wind screening, we use another hardy hybrid willow, which combines native and European varieties to thrive in challenging conditions while offering excellent protection from the wind.

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Poplar

For our poplar trees, we’ve selected two distinct varieties, both of which are excellent for fuel production and wind screening.

The first is Poplar Tricobal, commonly known as California Poplar. Its standout feature is its rapid growth, making it an efficient choice for biomass fuel and providing quick results for screening.

The second variety is Poplar Gaver, which has a unique charm with its delicate leaves. When the wind passes through, the leaves produce a soothing sound reminiscent of gentle rainfall. Despite its finer foliage, this variety is also fast-growing, making it equally effective for our needs.

Willow and Poplar: A Haven for Wildlife

Willow and poplar trees provide incredible benefits for wildlife. Willow, in particular, offers an early source of nectar, which is invaluable for bees recovering from a harsh winter and for other pollinators. Butterflies and moths are also drawn to willow as a place to lay their eggs, supporting a diverse range of caterpillars throughout the summer months.

In addition to supporting wildlife, willow is highly effective at reducing nitrogen levels in the soil, improving its balance naturally.

Poplar trees, on the other hand, serve as excellent habitats for birds. They provide shelter, places to play, and safe nesting spots, making them a vital resource for local birdlife.

Here at The Sign Maker we purchased all out willow from Mammoth Willow, the product was fantastic and grew on very well. 

https://mammothwillow.co.uk/shop/

Although some of the willow and poplar will be cut done to create a fuel source for our biomass we will continue to replant. Every time a willow or poplar is cut down a new one will be planted in its place.

If you have any wonderful willow or perfect poplar make sure to send us some pictures or if you have any tips or hints please do let us know, we would love to hear from you all.