Oliver S. Scheifele, The Canadian Willow King, Waterloo, Ontario, says:

“I plant my trees horizontally instead of vertically and I plant willow poles instead of seedlings.”

“By laying the logs about four feet apart in trenches in harmony with the slope of the bank – their feet in the water and heads in the air, - a root and tree growth is initiated that will defy the ravages of any raging waters.  After three years time rampaging rivers cannot budge banks so protected.”

“You can visualize this method by making a mental picture of the framework of a house roof.  The willow poles represent the rafters; the water level, the eaves; and the top of the bank, the ridge pole…….”

Mr. Scheifele believes that willow planting will be at its best on the many smaller tributaries (of the Mississippi River) and will be a factor in preventing the tantrums of the Father of Waters.

“Plant live willow logs or poles in trenches in a horizontal or angular position that is in harmony with the slope of a river bank or lakeshore.  The angle can be three to one, or forty-five degrees.  A tree and root growth will develop the entire length of each pole planted, whether it be five or fifty feet long.  Young trees will shoot up to a surprising height in a summer – from three to six feet – and the seeking, spreading roots will go to amazing depths – as far as fifteen feet.  It is necessary to use temporary artificial protection to stop erosion until the tree and root growth are advanced sufficiently to resist floods.  The kind of protection, varying from brush mats to sand bags and stone riprap, depends on the conditions to be met.”

“This horizontal planting gives many advantages over individual tree planting.  The resulting tangling roots and thick top growth will resist the vicious slapping of waves and the mad onrush of current.  Growth is promoted with all the advantages of adequate moisture and light and air.  The foot of the willow log is always submerged and will supply moisture so the trees at the extreme upper part will grow as prolifically as those close to the water.  The top of the pole, always above high water, supplies sun and air, sustaining life even when vegetation is under water throughout the flood period.  Naturally, a group of young trees springing from such a staunch base will be more hardy in resisting wind and weather than single seedlings bravely facing the elements.”

“It is interesting to note that even willow posts, used to anchor angularly planted logs, themselves sprout, sending out their roots and shoots to help the cause.  This tree growth will never fall, roots and all, into the river.  It cannot slide and it will prop and support the bank, giving it proper slope and rigidity.”