Hi! My name is Catherine. I'm a full-time willow weaver and instructor, and I'm dreaming of becoming self-sufficient in the material I use for my craft, while potentially making locally grown willow available at affordable prices to other weavers in the community. I'm looking for approximately ½ acre to establish a willow plantation with several varieties of basketry willow. Naturally moist land would be ideal, although irrigation is also an option. Basketry willow is planted closely together and coppiced annually during the winter to produce the long, slender shoots needed for weaving. Harvesting can begin in the first year, but it takes about three years for the willows to reach good production. I'm therefore looking for a long-term land arrangement where I can establish and care for the plantation over time. A few important considerations: Water: Naturally moist soil is ideal, although access to irrigation could also work. Deer fencing: Deer love willow, so fencing will be necessary to protect the plantation. Weed management: Young willow shoots are easily overtaken by weeds. I'm exploring sustainable alternatives, but landscape fabric is currently looking like the most viable option for successful establishment. Drying and storage: Access to a covered building with good airflow for drying and storing harvested willow would be a wonderful bonus. I'm also open to adapting or building a suitable structure, or finding another location for these needs. I'm excited to find a place where this project can take root, grow over the years, and contribute to a thriving local weaving community.
Preferably cleared and relatively level, with tilled soil or mowed grass. Not excessively uneven or bumpy ground.