Our client, Annabel wanted a simple, lage but discreet solution to compost potentially large amounts of lawn mowings and fallen leaves in various stages of decomposition.
Using local skills, a series of traditional bays with removable waney-edge boards, built using green oak from Aconbury Wood were constructed. Green oak, which turns a beautiful, aged silver colour was chosen to complement the surrounding colours and maturity of the surroundiings.
To break up the hard edges of these bays, a planting scheme has been implemented which will bring all year round colour. Vitis cognetiae will spread across the oak, creating a screen of large, deep-red leaves in autumn. A living willow fence provides support and spring colour, while a low hedge of alternating eucalyptus and silver birch around the perimeter adds rhythm. Also the dusty oranges and shiny whites of the barks give winter colour.
Living willow has also been used to create a composting area for leaf mold. This area is gated to allow for wheelbarrow access. Finally a small Ginkgo Biloba will grow to create dappled shade over the area, ensuring that the composting grass cuttings don't overheat.
The entire project took eight days to complete, and is now in constant use.
