The Sally Garden (IMMA)

A project started by Elida Maiques, planted in community during IMMA Earth Rising Eco Art Festival 2022.

A biodiversity haven where willow (sally/salley/salix) is coppiced yearly after flowering and fruiting. Willow rods are cut, harvested and stored for later use in weaving. The stools (tree stumps) remain alive, kept at ground level or up to 70cm.

This native tree is a truly sustainable material, it supports hundreds of species and is the basis for traditional arts such as willow weaving.

Livable futures for all will include willow.

The Sally Garden fits in a wheelbarrow.

A biomulch mat pegged with salvaged chopsticks helps the young trees establish.
A thick layer of bark mulch retains moisture and the biomulch mat in place.
Different willow varieties in striking purple, yellow, green, blue, selected by willow weaver Ciaran Hogan.