Willow Regrowth in Spring – A Timelapse

A short time-lapse film showing the regrowth of willow in spring. It was shot over seven weeks between March and May 2017 at Rothamsted Research in Hertfordshire, home to the National Willow Collection. After coppicing in winter, the cut willow stools (stumps) re-sprout to produce multiple shoots. This vigorous regrowth allows biomass to rapidly accumulate. Depending on the willow species used, the stems can be used for basketmaking or as a source of renewable carbon for bioenergy and biofuels. The ability of the stools to regrow from repeated harvests for up to 25 years with minimal input makes them of interest due to their potential to reduce carbon emissions.