All in the trim – the secret to top-quality willow
The journey from a young sapling to a premium bat-grade cricket bat is a meticulous one. While a majestic row of willow trees along a watercourse is a beautiful sight, what truly sets apart top-quality timber is often not visible to the casual observer – consistent and timely trimming.
We recently saw a perfect example: a stunning double row of English cricket bat willow. From a distance, it looked magnificent. However, close inspection revealed a critical issue: large knots had formed where the trees hadn’t been trimmed.
The cost of neglect
You might wonder, what’s the big deal about a few knots? For us, as specialist willow suppliers, it’s the difference between a top price and a significant disappointment. These knots, though not visible to the naked eye when the trees mature at 15 years old, become a “big surprise” for the purchaser, and significantly devalue the timber. Even if trimming begins now on neglected trees, it’s often too late for us to offer the premium price they could have commanded. Unfortunately, other unsuspecting suppliers might offer a great price, only to be disappointed when the trees are processed.
Why trimming is non-negotiable
Experience shows trimming willow trees twice a year is ideal. It takes a few minutes, yet it can earn hundreds of pounds more per tree.
Preventing knots: Young, green shoots can turn into “woody” hard shoots if left untrimmed. These woody shoots develop into knots deep within the timber.
Maximising value: The most critical period for trimming is in the first five years of a willow tree’s life. Regular trimming during this time is essential to achieve maximum value for your trees.
Ensuring quality: Trimming ensures the timber remains clean and free of imperfections, producing the high-quality willow that cricket bat makers demand.
Our commitment to quality
At JS Wright & Sons, we take trimming seriously, with experienced employees and subcontractors who dedicate themselves to looking after the trees we manage. From May to October, they meticulously trim all trees twice, helping to ensure they are of the highest quality. No other willow supplier has such an experienced and large-scale team dedicated to this vital task. We extend this service to more than 2,500 landowners who regularly sell trees to us and trust us to maintain their trees.
Maximising your investment
If we don’t trim your trees for you, please, make the time to do it yourself. It’s a straightforward process, and the right implements make it even easier. This modest time investment ensures your willow trees reach their full potential and command the top prices when they reach maturity.
Don’t let valuable timber go to waste. Trim your trees, and let’s grow top-quality cricket bat willow together.