Introduction and Preparation
A ‘Fedge’ is a cross between a FEnce and a heDGE, constructed from living willow. Willow fedges can be very decorative, longer lasting than many types of fences yet have the ecology value of a hedge. On this page we explain the basics of constructing a willow fedge but the real fun is coming up with your own creative design.
It’s best to decide on the design before you order the materials so you can order just the right amount of living willow rods, plus a few spares.
Start by marking out the line of the fedge, and clear or kill off the vegetation for at least 200 mm either side of the fedge line. If using a mulching fabric, lay this out, pegging it down at regular intervals.
Insert the living willow rods at regular interval, either upright, at an angle, or a mixture of both depending upon your chosen design. We have suggested some basic fedge principles below.
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Basic Techniques
This diagram shows some basic construction techniques which can be mixed, i.e. vertical rods with diagonal rods interwoven.
The strength of the fedge is significantly increased by including diagonals or weaving willow along it's length. The screening effectiveness of a fedge is greatly improved by including diagonals but for a more effective screen especially as a wind break, consider constructing an A frame fedge.
If it's a decorative effect you're after, consider more weaving, using more curves, adding 'windows' and trimming more frequently.
If you find it difficult to weave, then you may want to tie the willow rods together using special rubber tying tube that allows the willow to grow without damaging it.
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