Our Story
Somerset Willow Growers brings together generations of farming knowledge, rooted in the unique landscape of the Somerset Levels. From the fields of Bussex Farm, we grow, harvest, and prepare basketry willow using time-honoured techniques, supplying makers, schools, and communities across the UK. Our work is shaped by the land, sustained by our people, and inspired by the same care that's guided our family for over half a century.
Our Heritage
Our family has farmed Bussex Farm since 1966, when John Roberts first generation, bought the first fifty acres. The farm began with dairy cows and gradually developed into a mixed farming business as the land and climate changed. Today we manage around 175 acres, combining livestock with willow production to make the best use of the Somerset Levels. Three generations on, the same family remains hands-on in the business, building on the knowledge and values that started here almost sixty years ago.
Growing and Harvesting Willow
Our willow is planted in 60cm rows at around 55,000 cuttings per hectare. Planting is carried out mechanically by a small team, covering about one hectare per day. Newly planted beds are carefully maintained through hand or machine weeding and protection from deer and hares. It takes about three years for a new bed to reach full yield.
Each spring, livestock graze the beds to return nutrients to the soil. Later, leaf samples are analysed to guide nutrient and trace-element applications that keep the crop healthy. Harvesting begins in late November when the leaves have fallen. The rods are cut using rubber-tracked machinery to avoid soil damage, then dried naturally, sorted by hand, boiled, and stripped to produce buff willow ready for sale.
People and Purpose
Somerset Willow Growers remains a family run business. Rich joined the farm in the 1970s as the second generation, continues to work alongside his wife Jo and their son Will, who became the third generation to join in 2016. Together, they manage the day-to-day running of the farm, the livestock, and the willow operations. Our growing team includes Dzinters, Mairis, Andis and Rob, who bring skill and experience to every stage of the process, from planting and maintenance to harvesting and preparation.
Our materials are used for a variety of projects, from classroom weaving kits to large-scale commissions, including woven letters for Apple Day at The Newt in Somerset and bespoke horse-jump baskets for Badminton Horse Trials. We aim to make sustainable natural materials accessible to everyone, from schools and community groups to professional makers.
From Field to Harvest
Everything we do is focused on quality, traceability, and sustainable production. From planting to drying, every process is carried out with respect for the land. We aim to strengthen and grow the willow industry here in the UK, supporting craftspeople, educators, and businesses with materials produced on our farm in Somerset.