Wattle Fencing on the Farm

So many ideas pop into my head at random about how and what to do here on the farm to make it more beautiful, and how to use it more practically. Those are probably the two most consistent things that occur to me when I’m considering a new project to take on. With as much open space we have, one of the biggest jobs to tackle is the need for fencing and fenced off areas for both plants and animals. That gives me some things to consider when I have to make fencing. Will it contain what I need it to? And, is it practical and beautiful?

My generous neighbor volunteered his hands and time to build fencing around most of the perimeter. This allowed us to have some clear boundaries, and to let his horses run free for the most part and enjoy the land. On the north side of the property is a small, (and by small, I mean probably a few acres), of eucalyptus. Some of it is very large, but there is also a good amount of young growth. When we had a fire a couple of years ago, it cleaned up some of the scraggly undergrowth which left some nice clean young trees available for use. They were chopped down and cut to size to be used as fence posts. This will last for a couple of years, we hope. But this also got me to thinking about how I could also use the Eucalyptus for other types of fencing. The branches grow long and low, over time, and around much like ropes. Could this be another way to do some wattle fencing?

I set about doing some research. Generally, Willow is use for wattle fencing. But my research has revealed that this is usually so because willow is fast growing and easy to collect, is very flexible and easy to work with. As well, the willow can easily take root and turn your fencing into a living fence, which can grow and become even stronger over years or being well maintained. Well, the same could be said for Eucalyptus. (Minus the rooting. Eucalyptus is harder to root once cut.) Here is the thing about wattle: you want it to be flexible to work with and strong. Eucalyptus could fit into both of those categories, as it is both durable and dense.

The only I problem that I see so far with using the Eucalyptus from the property is that I might run out. I’d hate to harvest the branches so much that I won’t be able to reach them once I’ve harvested what is within my capacity. Will it grow back, or will the trees be stripped clean at the low level going forward? Perhaps wattle fencing will be something that will require years to accomplish several projects. Some things to consider.

One thing that I can do while I do some more research would be to start at a small scale, and do a few planter boxes or raised beds to see how they do and if they hold up to our harsh wind and summer heat. This would give me a chance to see how it fares and to consider the longer term outcomes.