This week our willow tree received a well overdue trim. I love this tree. It’s new stem growth is orange, which contrasts wonderfully with the green, elongated-oval leaves. When the sun catches it, then it turns into a huge, brilliant flame. Reaching high over everything. A fabulous sight.
It was thirteen years ago, that I planted it as a willow whip. A birthday present. Then it grew. Boy, was it happy, but I was worried. Each time the wind picked up, it would sway and bend in a way that I couldn’t imagine it would survive. I’d wake in the middle of the night, hear the high wind and check it was still standing. Apart from one smaller broken limb, it somehow made it through each storm.
This week, a friend pruned it to a more manageable size. Some of it is now in the wood shed. The rest is waiting further processing, apart from a little which is hanging from our front door, as a wreath. It only seems right. It is simple and I may dress it up as the season changes, but I’m pleased with it. I think I may need to make a few more of these.
As I took the photo, I noticed a cocoon above the door. A little creature who’s chosen to overwinter at the top of our front door. Waiting for Spring. Our willow tree will hopefully be sprouting around about that time too. Starting the whole cycle off again. A warming thought as the nights draw in.
what a beautiful tree and a gorgeous wreath! perfect for this time of year!
Simple but effective.