Split Hazel Basketry: Weaving Tradition with Flo Hamer

The garden

Having once been practised by basket makers from the woodlands of Wales to Romania, now the techniques of split hazel basketry are known to only a handful of basket makers in the UK. Once an emblematic craft, today it is at risk of being lost, a trend this serene garden haven aims to reverse.

The garden is designed for traditional craftswoman Flo Hamer, one of the few basket weavers who practise this endangered craft and one of only three people who teach it.

Visitors encounter swathes of planting that enhance the natural elegance of split hazel, alongside tools and materials that illustrate the different stages of the basket-making process. A cleft oak bench, designed for comfort while crafting, and a hazel hurdle fence reflect the layout’s simplicity and heritage value.

The utilitarian beauty of this traditional artistry is paired with modern, eco-conscious materials, including gravel mulch made from crushed brick and roof tiles reclaimed from the historic Bristol site of St Mary Le Port. In this way, the garden fosters meaningful conversations about sustainability in gardening, creating an enriching experience for all who visit.

The planting

The statement trees are large hazels, which show signs of coppicing, having been used to create baskets. These will bring some shade to the space and contrast against the tall and striking Verbascum bombyciferum.

Bold and soft yellows will create a striking display against the soft pink and white hues. The bright green leaves of the Hakonechloa will contrast against the soft and glaucous leaves of Verbascum and Stachys.

Key plants:

• Corylus avellana (hazel): chosen for its vital importance to split hazel basketry

• Verbascum bombyciferum: chosen for its tall and striking vivid yellow and textured leaves

• Haeckonechloa macra: chosen for its pops of bright green leaves

• Achillea millefolium ‘Butterfly Bombshell’: chosen for its soft colouring which changes each day as it opens

• ​Allium angulosum: chosen for its soft purple hues

Plants supplied by: to be confirmed

The designer – Henry T Pope

Henry has always been captivated by the relationship we form with our surroundings and how interactions enhance connections and understanding. Before fully dedicating himself to gardening, his journey as an artist explored sculpture and installation, with a particular focus on audience participation. This experience deepened his appreciation for how environments can engage and inspire.
 
He believes our gardens serve as vital sanctuaries for dialogue between people and wildlife, allowing us to connect with the natural world as well as ourselves. He specialises in crafting bold, stunning garden designs that blend beauty, functionality, and tranquillity, deepening our bond with nature.

About the sponsor – The Worshipful Company of Basketmakers

The Worshipful Company of Basketmakers are dedicated to supporting the craft of basketry. This project will further the knowledge of the endangered craft of split hazel basketry and promote its beauty.

The garden legacy

The garden will be relocated to Flo Hamer’s garden, adjacent to her workshop, and functioning exactly as the design intends.