History of Wicker Weaving and the use of Willow

WILLOW being PLANTED for the growing season ahead

WILLOW being PLANTED for the growing season ahead

WILLOW in FULL BLOOM ready for harvesting by Hand

WILLOW in FULL BLOOM ready for harvesting by Hand

WILLOW being HARVESTED by hand ready for Drying

Eco-Friendly Hand-Woven Caskets

Willow Caskets are among the most environmentally friendly Caskets available around the Globe.

We believe that our caskets are the ultimate in environmental recycling as Willow is a highly renewable crop harvested each year that involves minimal processing.

Quick Facts –

  • WILLOW grows from February to July and in the right conditions, it can grow inches per day.
  • Willow is traditionally planted closely spaced which forces the wicker rods to grow straight and tall as the plants chase the sunlight for growth. Willow produces generous foliage during the growing season.
  • Willow plants are grown sustainably, are easy to harvest and requiring no fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.
  • The plants can replenish fertility in degraded and marginal soils & also provide habitat for birds and insects.
  • They also function as windbreaks, stabilize soil, and can combat river and coastal erosion.
  • It can degrade rapidly in the soil and helps to lock carbon emissions into its Willow stems.
  • In the right soil conditions, willow tends to decompose much more quickly than traditional casket materials.
  • Willow is a Carbon Neutral material and when burnt only gives off the same amount of carbon that it consumes within its lifetime.
  • All of our ECO VERDE Willow Caskets are completely natural and 100% biodegradable. These Willow Caskets will break down in 9 Months to 2.5 Years depending on soil conditions.

The History of Wicker Weaving & use of Willow.

The history of willow and the weaving of willow for caskets is a long-standing tradition that dates back centuries.

Willow, known for its flexible branches, has been used for various purposes, including the construction of burial containers.

The Egyptians recognized the durability of willow and used it for preserving bodies in the afterlife.

In Europe, willow caskets became popular during the Middle Ages due to the abundance of willow trees.

The Victorians further popularized willow caskets, incorporating intricate designs and embellishments.

Willow caskets remain a sustainable and eco-friendly option today, with artisans continuing to weave them using traditional techniques.

The history of willow and its association with casket weaving showcases the enduring beauty and practicality of this versatile tree.