{"title":"Wet areas Woodland Trees and Shrubs","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"common-alder-alnus-glutinosa","title":"Alder - Common (Alnus glutinosa)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of Alder (Alnus glutinosa) bare root trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlder grows well from seed into a bare root tree in just one growing season.   The seedlings we offer (sometimes called whips) are grown from seed sown in open fields in spring and become a viable tree sapling by the following November and we sell them from November through until April. We have bare root Alder whips in several heights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe seed from which our Alnus glutinosa tree saplings are grown is usually UK provenance but we sometimes also have some of the highest quality imported seed so if it is particularly important to you to have UK seed provenance, please give us a call.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAlder (Alnus glutinosa) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOften chosen because it is so well suited to wetter soils and riverbanks Common Alder also does well on normal soils. There are many other attributes to this lovely tree\/hedging plant.  It has a tidy conical habit, is very fast growing initially, is native, has female catkins in March, comes into leaf early and then holds its leaves well into winter, and in autumn has attractive little cones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a favoured species of tree for windbreaks around orchards, second only to\u003ca href=\"\/products\/italian-alder-alnus-cordata\"\u003e Alnus cordata \u003c\/a\u003e– please see our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rjtreesandhedging.co.uk\/blogs\/news\/the-best-species-of-tree-to-use-as-a-windbreak\"\u003eblog on orchard windbreaks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blog\/the-best-species-of-tree-to-use-as-a-windbreak-around-an-apple-orchard\/\"\u003e.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease be aware that Alder varieties are deep rooted so don’t plant near a building, road or paved area which could suffer damage from the roots.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn ideal tree or hedging plant for boggy ground and will even tolerate its roots being underwater for weeks on end so very much the tree to choose for flood risk areas where it helps to prevent soil erosion.  It doesn’t rot in standing water but actually the wood just gets stronger. As well as it’s suitability to wet soils, it is highly tolerant of air pollution so is ideal for roadsides and urban planting schemes and it does not require a wet soil to thrive – it will be absolutely fine on normal soil.  It has nitrogen fixing capability so it will not only thrive on poor soils but will enhance the soil and is an ideal tree for ground reclamation.  Common alder is good in full sun or partial shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst there are many varieties of Alder, Alnus glutinosa is the only variety native to the UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne particularly good attribute of Common Alder is that it comes into leaf early and it holds onto its leaves late so although it is deciduous, it is without its leaves for a relatively short time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt has early male catkins (a good source of early nectar and pollen for bees and a wide range of insects) and small female cones in autumn (strobiles) which hang on the tree like Christmas baubles, opening to disperse seed on wind and water. The seeds are eaten by birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves are quite large, dark green, shiny, shaped like a tennis racquet and indented at the end (so there is no pointed tip).  They emerge from greyish\/purplish buds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlder produces tough and durable light wood which is rot resistant and was frequently used for boat building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlders can be trimmed as a hedge, allowed to grow as a tall windbreak, or as a tree it will grow to about 20m with a conical shape.  It is fast growing when young (up to 2m pa) in the right situation.  Alder trees live for about 60 years, longer if coppiced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as Black Alder or European Alder.  Betulaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"20-40cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801726452059,"sku":"Alnus glut 3040 1+0","price":0.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"40-60cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801726517595,"sku":"Alnus glut 4060 1+0","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801726550363,"sku":"Alnus glut 6080 1+0","price":1.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683962276-88202000_a4cb4319-0655-4450-9c4f-2149616010f1.jpg?v=1770027415"},{"product_id":"italian-alder-alnus-cordata","title":"Alder - Italian (Alnus cordata)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of Italian Alder (Alnus cordata) bare root trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have Alnus cordata bare root plants in several specifications and heights.  This species does not grow from seed quickly and needs to be lined out to develop a viable root structure so we offer Alnus cordata as transplants (1+1, 2 year old plants) which began as a one year old whip (grown from seed in one growing season) and are then planted back out for one more growing season in a different area of our fields at lower density to give each plant more space, nutrients and water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe seed from which our Alnus cordata tree saplings are grown is usually UK provenance but we sometimes also have some of the highest quality imported seed so if it is important to you to have UK provenance seed, please give us a call.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eItalian Alder (Alnus cordata) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll of the Alder varieties are tolerant of wet soils, but this variety will also cope well with dry soils (it is native to Italy so that’s always a good indicator of soil conditions that can be tolerated).  It is very fast growing initially (1-2m) and it is the accepted favourite variety to plant as a windbreak on the windy side of orchards (see our \u003ca href=\"\/blog\/the-best-species-of-tree-to-use-as-a-windbreak-around-an-apple-orchard\/\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rjtreesandhedging.co.uk\/blogs\/news\/the-best-species-of-tree-to-use-as-a-windbreak\"\u003eblog on windbreaks\u003c\/a\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-alder-alnus-glutinosa\"\u003eAlnus glutinosa\u003c\/a\u003e, it is a medium height, conical tree with catkins in early spring (good for bees).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease be aware that Alder varieties are deep rooted so do not plant near a building\/road\/pavement where eventually roots could cause damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eItalian Alder is fine on all soils – wet or dry.  It’s a good choice for thin topsoil areas as it can hold soil over rocks.  Like other Alders, it is nitrogen fixing so it does well in poor soils and can over time improve the soil too to benefit other nearby trees. They don’t like heavy shade, but will grow well in full sun or partial shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves of Italian Alder are green, shaped like a pear and glossy.  They have male and female catkins – the male are long and green and the female are cone like and quite large compared with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-alder-alnus-glutinosa\"\u003eAlnus glutinosa.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mature height is from 12m to 20m, sometimes a bit more in an ideal situation. Growth rate is fast – 1-2m until maturity.   It is this fast growth rate that makes it good for windbreaks – it does the job quickly!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetulacaea family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"40-60cm \/ 2yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801726845275,"sku":"Alnus cord 4060 1+1","price":1.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60-80cm \/ 2yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801726878043,"sku":"Alnus cord 6080 1+1","price":1.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"80-100cm \/ 2yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801726910811,"sku":"Alnus cord 80100 1+1","price":1.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1684143909-27080500_a53d20c5-36d3-4a38-bb59-4088a3d845a8.jpg?v=1770027419"},{"product_id":"douglas-fir-pseudotsuga-menziesii","title":"Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of Douglas Fir bare root trees (Pseudotsuga menziesii)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have Douglas Fir bare root trees in several sizes and specifications.  They are grown from seed and take 2 or more years to become viable plants.  The 1U1 specification are sown into seed beds and then left in situ for two full growing seasons before they are lifted ready to be sold. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe also have Douglas Fir transplants which begin as one year old bare root trees (grown from seed in one growing season) which are lifted, have their roots trimmed to encourage bushy growth and are then planted back out for one year (that would then be a 1+1) or more likely two further years (that would be a 1+2) and they are planted out at lower density than in the seed bed to give each plant more space, nutrients and water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDouglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough a non-native, Douglas Fir was introduced to the UK from North America in 1827 by David Douglas, a botanist.  It’s a very long living tree (up to 1000 years) and grows to 50m+.  Evergreen, coniferous, and of great importance in commercial forestry – it is used to make timber beams, decking, furniture, flooring etc and of course, it’s also a popular Christmas tree variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDouglas Fir likes wetter soils and is found on the western side of the UK in forests and mixed woodlands. It is shade tolerant but also grows well in full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves of Douglas Fir are soft green needles and are arranged around the stem in a circle.  They are green on the top and white stripey underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers and fruit are both male and female cones, on the same tree.  The female cones are wind pollinated and change colour from yellow, through pink to brown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 50m+ Douglas Fir is the tallest tree found in the UK and it is fast growing, hence its suitability for commercial forestry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as Oregan Pine and Columbian Pine.  Pinaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"20-40cm \/ 2yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801731727707,"sku":"Pseudotsuga 2040 1U1","price":1.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683966660-27141100_fba6ec9f-72fa-4244-bf1d-286bc8808059.jpg?v=1770027448"},{"product_id":"alder-buckthorn-rhamnus-frangula","title":"Buckthorn - Alder (Rhamnus frangula)","description":"\u003ch2 class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOur range of Alder buckthorn bare root plants (Rhamnus frangula)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe normally have Alder buckthorn bare root trees or hedging plants in several sizes.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003eThe 1+0 specification plants are seedlings (often called whips) which were planted from seed in the spring and are sold during the following November to April months ie they are 1 year old.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eWe have Alder buckthorn bare root whips in several heights. All of these plants are grown by us in Herefordshire so you are buying \"direct from the grower\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAlder Buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlder buckthorn likes wetter areas, thriving in wet riverbanks and bogs but it will cope also with normal moisture levels.  Along with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/purging-buckthorn-rhamnus-cathartica\"\u003eRhamnus cathartica\u003c\/a\u003e, the leaves are a main food stuff for the Brimstone butterfly and it has other wildlife value with flowers attractive to bees and berries for birds, particularly thrushes.  Although having “thorn” in the name would imply it is a thorny plant, in fact is it not thorny (unlike Rhamnus cathartica which is spiny).  We have a blog on the \u003ca href=\"\/blog\/the-differences-between-rhamus-cathartica-and-rhamnus-frangula\/\"\u003edifferences between Rhamnus frangula and Rhamnus cathartica.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWetter ground in hedgerows, bogs, scrubland and woodlands, beside ditches and streams, ideally in full or partial sunlight and acidic soil, though it will tolerate neutral soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves of Alder buckthorn are matt green, oval, up to 7cm in length, with a pointed tip and taper towards the base, and are arranged alternately on the stem and the stems themselves are purplish-brown.   The leaves are one of the very few foodstuffs for brimstone butterflies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ein May\/June, alder buckthorn produces greenish-cream flowers which are star shaped and are held in large clusters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruits are reddish\/purple berries, darkening to black, popular with thrushes and other birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bark is smooth and purple-brown with white corky cells when young, becoming grey-brown as it matures, but still retaining some pale markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe eventual height if left to grow as a shrubby, delicate tree would be about 5m but this plant is more often grown as part of a hedgerow where it is easily kept at 2- 3m height.  Growth rate is average at about 40cm pa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRhamnaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"20-40cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801734185307,"sku":"Rhfrang20401+0","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683960715-85800900_b0e023c3-9962-4301-bf76-072c63fe0f83.jpg?v=1770027468"},{"product_id":"downy-birch-betula-pubescens","title":"Birch - Downy (Betula pubescens)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of bare root Downy birch trees (Betula pubescens)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have bare root downy birch trees in several sizes.  The 1+0 specification plants are seedlings (often called whips) which were sown from seed in the spring and are sold during the following November to April months ie they are one year old.  We have downy birch bare root whips in several heights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe always have several batches of seed for Downy birch including UK provenance seed, but sometimes also the highest quality imported seed so if it is particularly important to you to have UK provenance seed, please give us a call.  See our blog on \u003ca href=\"\/blog\/seed-provenance-where-the-seed-comes-from\/\"\u003eseed provenance\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDowny Birch (Betula pubescens) Summary \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative to all of Northern Europe, downy birch grows further north than any other broadleaf tree.  It is closely related to \u003ca href=\"\/products\/silver-birch-betula-pendula\"\u003eSilver birch\u003c\/a\u003e but grows in wetter soil and is well suited to the west of Scotland where it is grown for timber.  This blog explains the main \u003ca href=\"\/blog\/differences-between-betula-pendula-and-betula-pubescens\/\"\u003edifferences between Silver birch and Downy birch\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs its common name implies, Downy birch is covered in downy hairs. It has an elegant, light canopy with slightly drooping branches (but is more upright than Betula pendula).  The bark of downy birch isn’t as white and papery as silver birch and has less fissures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFound throughout the UK but particularly in the north and west, downy birch prefers damper soils than silver birch, even heavy clay soils and boggy areas (but not fully waterlogged).  It grows well on elevation sites in full or partial sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDowny birch has small green, triangular leaves rounded at the base with velvety leaf stalks.  The yellow\/brown “lambs’ tails” male catkins and are long and dangling, female catkins are short and upright and bright green and are wind pollinated after which they turn red and disperse tiny seed in autumn.  It supports 300+ insect species and several bird species, particularly siskins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDowny birch is a \u003ca href=\"\/blog\/what-are-pioneer-tree-species\/\"\u003epioneer species\u003c\/a\u003e (see blog on this topic) and are fast growing, seed readily, are undemanding and easy to establish.  Their eventual height is about 20m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as Betula alba, moor birch, white birch, European white birch, hairy birch.  Betulaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"40-60cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801738051931,"sku":"Betula pub 4060 1+0","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801738084699,"sku":"Betula pub 6080 1+0","price":1.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683966815-10324700_a1eb3c47-c5d0-41fc-8b70-5c52205f2b75.jpg?v=1770027497"},{"product_id":"common-dogwood-cornus-sanguinea","title":"Dogwood - Common (Cornus sanguinea)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of bare root Cornus sanguinea plants (Common dogwood)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCornus sanguinea bare root hedging plants or shrubs are grown from seed in one season.  Seed is sown in spring and then the plants are ready to be sold from the following November through to April. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe always have several batches of seed of Cornus sanguinea including UK provenance and also some of the highest quality imported seed so if it is particularly important to you to have UK provenance please give us a call.  This is a blog on \u003ca href=\"\/blog\/seed-provenance-where-the-seed-comes-from\/\"\u003eseed provenance\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/search?q=cornus\"\u003eDogwoods\u003c\/a\u003e are normally grown for their attractive upright, bright coloured stems but they also provide quite a lot of wildlife value.  This variety is native and has orange\/red stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn spring and summer, it has large ovate, smooth edged, dull, dark green leaves, borne opposite each other and held on purplish stems.  Flat clusters of tiny white flowers, which turn into black berries in autumn, are carried on older wood.  Leaves turn red before falling, exposing the bright straight stems.  Dogwoods look great planted in a group on damp edges of woodland (where they can benefit from some sunlight) and are often included in wildlife friendly hedgerows.  The brightest stem colour is achieved when dogwoods are planted in full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to this native variety, we have a Dogwood with red stems (\u003ca href=\"\/products\/red-dogwood-cornus-alba\"\u003eCornus alba\u003c\/a\u003e) and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/siberian-dogwood-cornus-alba-sibirica\"\u003eCornus alba Sibirica \u003c\/a\u003ewhich has very dark red stems, both often used in landscaping schemes rather than farm hedgerows where the native Cornus sanguinea is more popular.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDogwoods will grow in most soils with a preference for moist clay to loamy soils, though it will grow (but more slowly) on limestone soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, fruit and flowers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves are opposite and up to 3” long with smooth sides and curved veins, mid green in colour in spring and summer and turning deep red in autumn.  Nectar and pollen rich flowers are tiny with 4 creamy coloured petals, held in clusters up to 2” wide and are insect pollinated.  The leaves are eaten by caterpillars and the black fruits (dogberries) are eaten by a wide range of birds and mammals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDogwood is a medium to large shrub with an eventual height of up to 5m.  New stems grow quickly, with brighter colour, if they are cut down to about 4” from the soil level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as bloody dogwood and bloodtwig dogwood.  Cornaceae family\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"20-40cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801738510683,"sku":"Cornus sang 3040 1+0","price":0.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"20-40cm \/ 2yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801738576219,"sku":"Cornus sang 3040 1+1","price":1.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"40-60cm \/ 2yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801738608987,"sku":"Cornus sang 4060 1+1","price":1.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"40-60cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801738674523,"sku":"Cornus sang 4060 1+0","price":1.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683962559-24648900_5549c690-7d9d-4767-8a75-7921404fdcdf.jpg?v=1770027501"},{"product_id":"goat-willow-salix-caprea","title":"Willow - Goat (Salix caprea)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of Goat Willow bare root plants (Salix caprea)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have Goat Willow bare root plants in several specifications and heights.  The 1+0 specification plants are seedlings (often called whips) which were grown from seed sown in the spring and are sold during the following November to April months ie they are 1 year old.  We have Goat Willow whips in several heights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGoat Willow (Salix caprea) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small rounded pioneer tree (see our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rjtreesandhedging.co.uk\/blogs\/news\/what-are-pioneer-tree-species\"\u003eblog on pioneer trees\u003c\/a\u003e) or large shrub is generally planted as a hedge or windbreak near water where it will suck up moisture effectively as well as tolerating standing in water and whilst moisture loving, it will also grow on dry soil.  It is very fast growing and can be coppiced to produce timber for fires or to make charcoal.  Unlike most \u003ca href=\"\/search?q=willow\"\u003ewillows \u003c\/a\u003ethe wood is not flexible enough to be woven.  It has deep spreading roots and does well on steep slopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most appealing aspect of this lovely tree is the pussy willow catkins in spring, thick and padded like kitten’s paws (pussies), which appear before the leaves in early spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe name \"caprea\" means goat and it is thought it derives from it being used as goat fodder and indeed it can still be used for that purpose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoat willow is a water loving tree\/shrub and is ideal near ponds, streams or rivers, or in wetlands and bogs. Its other use is to hold the soil in place on steep embankments and it will grow well there even in dry soil.  It will grow in semi shade but prefers to grow in a sunny situation, and in any soil type other than very acidic or very alkaline.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNormally willows have long slim leaves but the goat willow has oval dark green leaves with a grey felt underneath.  Male trees produce pinkish grey fat catkins up to 2” long which turn yellow when ripe with pollen very early in the spring and are an important early source of pollen for bees and other pollinating insects. They are vital for bumblebee queens coming out of hibernation.  Female trees produce long green catkins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf left unpruned, goat willow would grow to about 8m in height but it is often coppiced to the ground every 5 years and it very quickly regrows with long straight stems and even larger catkins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as European pussy willow and great sallow.  Salicaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"40-60cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801739854171,"sku":"Salix cap 4060 1+0","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801739821403,"sku":"Salix cap 6080 1+0","price":1.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1684142394-17986300_8532f244-093f-4a24-a1fc-d1e2c8b09531.jpg?v=1770027507"},{"product_id":"grey-willow-salix-cinerea","title":"Willow - Grey (Salix cinerea)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of Grey Willow (Salix cinerea) bare root plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have Salix cinerea bare root plants in several specifications and heights.  The 1+0 specification plants are seedlings (often called whips) which were grown from seed sown in the spring and are sold during the following November to April months ie they are 1 year old.  We normally have Salix cinerea whips in several heights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGrey Willow (Salix cineria) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery similar to \u003ca href=\"\/products\/goat-willow-salix-caprea\"\u003egoat willow \u003c\/a\u003ebut with smaller leaves that are at least twice as long as they are wide, and is found less often away from damp areas.  There are other subtle differences – the bark is slightly darker and the bark ridges are not as deep.  For a wet site the two are pretty much interchangeable though and very similar in appearance at first glance with large grey catkins in early spring turning yellow as they ripen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/search?q=willow\"\u003eWillow species\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrey willows like moist or wet acid or neutral soil and grow best in full sun thought they will grow in partial shade. They tolerate high winds other than at the coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves are dark greyish green, oblong to ovate, hairy beneath.  The male catkins are silky grey turning yellow and the female cakins are grey\/green.   Willows catkins are amongst the earliest sources of nectar and pollen. There are rare bees that are dependent on Salix cinerea perhaps because of the quality of the pollen.  These trees produce huge quantities of pollen, it is thought because they are wind pollinated so they need a lot of pollen to increase the chance of it reaching the flower of another tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe eventual height of grey willow is about 5m (with a spread of about 5m as well unless you keep it trimmed) and the growth rate is fast.  Willows are sometimes coppiced or pollarded and regrow quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as pussy willow, grey sallow and common sallow and is from the Salicaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"40-60cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801741984091,"sku":"Salix cin 4060 1+0","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801741885787,"sku":"Salix cin60801+0","price":1.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1684142804-06571400_df012ca0-4f71-4036-87c4-d829d1546559.jpg?v=1770027521"},{"product_id":"white-willow-salix-alba","title":"Willow - white (Salix alba)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of White willow (Salix alba) bare root plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have bare root Salix alba plants in several sizes.  The 1+0 specification are seedlings (often called whips) which are grown from hardwood cuttings (rather than from seed as are most bare root plants), which are planted in spring and are sold during the following November to April months ie they are one year old.  The cuttings are taken from top quality mother plants kept in stock beds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhite Willow (Salix alba) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite willow is an imposing beautiful tree.  It is the largest \u003ca href=\"\/search?q=willow\"\u003ewillow species\u003c\/a\u003e with pale coloured foliage generally found and planted in wet ground.  The pale colour comes from the white felted undersides to the leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst not the “weeping willow” which is a completely different variety (Salix babylonica or Salix sepulcralis Chrysocoma neither of which we sell but White willow does also have a weeping habit. The bark has historically been used for medicinal purposes as an aspirin alternative.  Stems have a weeping habit and are flexible.  White willow is not a particularly long living tree – about 30 years would be the norm.  It is often pollarded at about 6-8ft from the ground (above the height of browsing animals) to promote dense, vigorous new growth.  This is a sustainable practise (and an ancient one) which prevents trees splitting under their own weight, stabilises river banks and provides a dense habitat for birds, insects and mammals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite willow does best planted in a wet situation, on the bank of a stream or river or in very wet ground but will grow in drier soils.  They grow well in acid, neutral or alkaline soil as long as it is deep and loamy and they like full sun or pretty much full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruits\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe alternate leaves are long (up to 10cm) and narrow (up to 1.5cm), white felted underneath and with finely serrated margins.  The greyish\/yellow catkins (male and female on the same tree) are pollinated by insects and the female catkins become longer and develop white downy capsules which are carried on the wind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEventual height of white willow is up to 30m and the growth rate is fast.  These trees are often pollarded - see the Summary section above.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species belongs to the Salicaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801743360347,"sku":"Salixalba 6080 0\/1","price":1.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1684147266-62761100_71c49606-b2ae-4582-8e0f-a50d7e71c7af.jpg?v=1770027533"},{"product_id":"willow-osier-salix-viminalis","title":"Willow - Osier (Salix viminalis)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of bare root Osier plants (Salix viminalis)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost bare root plants are grown from seed but Osier is grown from cuttings (taken from good quality \"mother plants\") in winter and planted out into open fields in spring.  They are then ready for sale from the following November until the end of the bare root season in April.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon Osier (Salix viminalis) Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon osier is the willow species commonly coppiced or pollarded in a one to two year cycle for its withies - thin pliable rods for making baskets, hurdles and willow screens, sometimes used as an alternative to hazel.  It is also now being used as a biofuel. It is not native but is thought to have been brought to the UK in ancient times.  Like other willows it is generally found and planted in wet sites by the side of streams, rivers or ponds and its horizontal growing roots help with soil erosion.  Common Osier has an upright growth habit unlike some willows which are more weeping (see \u003ca href=\"\/products\/white-willow-salix-alba\"\u003eSalix alba\u003c\/a\u003e).  Willows are one of the fastest growing plants with potential for hedging use and this speed of growth makes them suitable to use as a windbreak hedge in moist and loamy soils.  They will not grow as fast in dry, sandy soils but will still make a good hedge within a few years as long as the hedge line is keep free of weeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSalix vimilnalis will grow in any soil except chalk and prefers full sun or partial shade.  It likes wet sites by ponds or streams. It will grow at the coast and will tolerate salt winds but will not tolerate standing in sea water.  Salix viminalis has the capability of being able to absorb heavy metals from soil so it is used to decontaminate polluted soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves are very long and narrow with the edges rolling inwards.  They are green on the surface and have white hairs underneath giving a white felted effect.  Green female cakins and male yellow catkins (on separate plants) appear before the leaves in late winter and very early spring and after pollination the female catkins produce seeds which are carried on the wind.  The catkins provide early pollen and nectar for bees and other insects and the leaves are eaten by moth caterpillars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSalix viminalis is an upright shrub or small tree growing to about 6m in height and it is very fast growing at about 1.5m pa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as basket willow and osier willow and is from the Salicaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Arial',sans-serif;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"40-60cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801743720795,"sku":"Salix vim 4060 0\/1","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801743753563,"sku":"Salix vim 6080 0\/1","price":1.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683965696-87182700_77fc992b-0c8a-44fa-af83-953d6b285354.jpg?v=1770027538"},{"product_id":"black-poplar-populus-nigra-betulifolia","title":"Poplar - Black (Populus nigra betulifolia)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of Black Poplar trees (Populus nigra betulifolia)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have Black Poplar bare root trees in several sizes.  The 1+0 specification are seedlings (often called whips) which were grown from cuttings taken from mother plants in our stock beds, planted out in the spring and sold during the following November to April months ie they are one year old from when the cuttings were taken (though the mother plants are mature) and we normally have them in several heights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBlack Poplar Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Poplar is the statuesque tree seen in Constable's Hay Wain. Once common but now a relatively rare tree in the landscape (the most endangered native tree in Britain) which is a shame because Black Poplars are statuesque, long living trees with attractive timber (almost white) and good wildlife value.   They are important hosts for a multitude of insects which in turn attract a range of birds including flycatchers and warblers as well as woodpeckers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey were once grown for timber and the wood is fire resistant and springy so the timber was often made into floorboards and cartwheels, but both of those are not in demand nowadays, so Black Poplars are now grown for their appearance and suitability to wet habitats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is often hybridised with other poplar species and hybrids, making pure black poplars the rarity that they are (possibly only 7000 mature trees in the UK with possibly only 600 female trees from which cutting material can be taken (these trees are grown from cuttings rather than seed) but with the increase in tree planting on flood plains, we are seeing increased demand for these lovely and useful trees. They have a fuller silhouettte than the fast growing American Poplar that we have become accustomed to in our landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Poplars are often found in wet habitats - boggy soils, flood plains and along river banks.  They are still farily commonly found in Cheshire, Shropshire, Somerset, Cambridgeshire and East Anglia though many more of the Black Poplar trees in the landscape are male (with red catkins).  It is very rare elsewhere in the UK, but found throughout mainland Europe, into north Africa, and as far east as China.  These trees cannot tolerate dry conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Poplar is easily identified by a light scent of balsam on the leaves which are shiny, heart shaped with elongated tips and in spring somewhat hairy (the hairs are shed later in the summer).  The stems have knobbly knuckles along the length - very distinctive. Catkins are found - male are red and female are yellow\/green and are wind pollinated and develop into very fluffy clusters of seeds. The male red catkins were sometimes called \"Devil's fingers\" and it was thought to be bad luck to pick them up.  They are leafy trees with heavy, outward-arching main branches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bark is deeply furrowed and gnarly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Poplar trees will grow to about 30m so are considered a large tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tree is from the Salicaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Arial',sans-serif;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801744441691,"sku":"Pop nigra 6080 0\/1","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"80-100cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801744474459,"sku":"Pop nigra 80100 0\/1","price":2.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683961585-04914100_d0c7bc80-705e-4ca5-915c-887956dfc3bd.jpg?v=1770027543"},{"product_id":"false-lombary-poplar-populus-canadensis-robusta","title":"Poplar - False Lombardy  (Populus canadensis Robusta)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOur range of bare root False Lombardy Poplar trees (Populus canadensis Robusta)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have bare root False Lombardy Poplar trees in various sizes.  The 1+0 specification plants are seedlings (often called whips) which were planted from seed in the spring and are sold during the following November to April months ie they are 1 year old. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFalse Lombardy Poplar Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFalse Lombardy Poplars also commonly called Hybrid Poplars are tall trees with a narrow vertical (broadening to conical) habit and are suited to a variety of uses in exposed sites and in damper areas.  They have straight trunks with regular branching and symmetrical upward facing branches. A very attractive species for a windbreak where planted in multiples or parkland tree where planted singly, as well as a woodland tree.  It's a very good timber tree quickly producing strong timber - or it can be coppiced and will re-grow quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Situation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species is suitable for exposed and coastal areas due to be wind resistant although it is also commonly planted in urban and landscape settings, wherever there is fertile, moist soil.  Its most common use is planted as a windbreak for buildings or farms.  It is sensitive to dry conditions and frost but will cope with occasionally waterlogged soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLeaves, flowers and fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBronze leaves in spring, turning green as summer progresses, and then yellowish\/green.  False Lombardy Poplar can be described as a \"leafy tree\" which helps make it good as a windbreak. It has triangular to diamond-shaped leaves which emerge early. It produces flowers in the form of showy, reddish male catkins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEventual height and growth rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFalse Lombardy Poplars are fast growing (1.5 - 1.8m pa) and become tall trees, at about 30m height.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as Hybrid Poplar and is from the Salicaceae family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"rjtreesandhedging","offers":[{"title":"60-80cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801744933211,"sku":"PopcanRob 6080 1+0","price":1.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"80-100cm \/ 1yr \/ Bare Root","offer_id":51801744965979,"sku":"PopcanRob 80100 1+0","price":1.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0975\/4601\/0971\/files\/1683967441-88281200_ca53ac5c-82a6-451d-9322-e03b58f40013.jpg?v=1770027546"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.rjtreesandhedging.co.uk\/collections\/wet-areas-woodland-trees-and-shrubs.oembed","provider":"R J Trees and Hedging Ltd","version":"1.0","type":"link"}