Establishment and Maintenance of Living Structures Made of Willow ( Salix) Stems    (View PDF)

Yulia A. Kuzovkina

Abstract: Two experimental gardens were installed in Storrs, Connecticut, U.S., to evaluate the potential and limitations of constructing living structures of willow stems as play elements for children. Detailed designs and illustrated descriptions of six structures were developed, which can be accessed on the Internet (www.plantscience.uconn.edu/kuzovkinacv.html). Two clones of Salix miyabeana, previously selected for biomass production, exhibited the required characteristics for growth and stem pliability, low pest susceptibility, and satisfactory performance. The plantings were visually appealing and site maintenance was relatively low. A broader implementation of this innovative practice may appeal to horticulturists, arboriculturists, landscape architects and designers, environmental educators, and school teachers.

Keywords: Arboricultural education; children’s garden; Salix; willow

https://doi.org/10.48044/jauf.2008.039