Back in January we hit our lovely local park one morning after a few stormy days.
And found some fallen pussy willow twigs in the playground.
Even in January, the willow was already bursting with catkins.
Popping out of their protective black shells.
We admired and stroked the gorgeously smooth pussy willow fur.
And back home popped our fallen pussy willow twigs in some water on the kitchen table.
And have been watching those storm battered little willow twigs work their wonderful spring magic ever since.
After a week or so they started to grow new roots …
And then new green shoots appeared … and grew and grew …
And finally those sleek little pussy willow tails have opened out and shown off their pollen.
They’re looking scruffy now but it’s been fascinating to inspect the pollen grains up close.
We’re going to plant a few twigs in the garden and see if we can grow a little willow hedge.
Hopefully it will do it’s bit to soak up some of the ground water that has become such a problem in our marshy old bit of south London now so many gardens are paved over.
Plus we found out the pollen-tastic willow is an early spring friend for our struggling bees.
If you find some fallen willow twigs do pop them in water and watch them grow. It’s a lovely way for kids to observe how some plants – mint’s another – grow new roots in water.
And to discover the great variety of ways in which plants produce pollen – not just in flowers, but through all sorts of different catkins as well.
If you give it a go, do share your pics. I would love to see them.
And for more simple ideas for exploring nature with kids do check out my other nature notes and for nature prompts throughout the year, sign up for my newsletter …
