Why use willow fence panels to build a privacy fence
11 June 2025
A privacy fence blocks or encloses an outdoor space, creating a sense of seclusion. Privacy fence panels are often tall enough that people cannot see over them, and solid enough that people cannot easily see through them.
When considering installing privacy fencing around your outdoor space, willow fencing is an ideal option for many reasons.
1. Different fencing styles
One of the many benefits of willow fencing is its unique, natural aesthetic, available in a range of different fencing styles.
At Musgrove Willows, we make three different styles of willow fence panel, each handcrafted by a skilled weaver using willow grown on our Somerset farm.
Framed willow fencing
Our framed willow fence panels are constructed using wooden battens and high-quality woven willow rods, giving strength and durability – perfect for a sturdy privacy fence. Available in a range of different sizes, these fence panels offer an eye-catching combination of modern elegance and natural beauty.
We also supply framed willow fence panels with trellis for a slightly different aesthetic. This fencing is topped with a decorative 1ft trellis, ideal for training up climbing plants and vines.
Ribbon willow fencing
Every ribbon willow fence panel is handwoven with a standard weave known as a “slew” or “ribbon”. We use only hand-graded, high quality willow to ensure we create a strong fence panel with a neat weave.
Our ribbon fencing’s slightly more rustic look adds beautiful natural texture to your outdoor space.
Roll fencing (screening)
Our willow roll fencing is perfect for screening areas, covering arbours and pergolas, or creating zones within your garden. Willow roll fencing can be easily attached to fence uprights using ties or staples. Our handcrafted panels are 3m wide and come in three different heights.
2. Made-to-measure
When installing willow fencing, the first step is to plan your fencing boundary. Measuring the boundary will tell you how much willow fencing you need to order.
If you need unusual sizes to make your privacy fence ideas a reality, we can help. In addition to the standard sizes of our fence panels, we also supply made-to-measure fencing in both framed fence panels and ribbon fencing.
Please measure your made-to-measure fencing carefully. All made-to-measure fencing is non-refundable (please see section 15.2 of our terms and conditions). If you need any assistance to work out how many fence panels to order, please just get in touch with the Musgrove Willows team – we’re happy to help.
3. A natural, strong windbreak
Even in high winds, willow fences remain stable. The construction of the weave allows some wind to pass through, making it a natural windbreak.
In hot weather, the gaps in the weave of a willow fence also let heat escape from sheltered areas. This in turn allows cooler, fresher air in – keeping your garden temperate and comfortable.
4. Simple to install and maintain
All our fencing can be easily attached between wooden or concrete fence posts. Once a willow fence is up, it requires little maintenance to keep it looking lovely.
To prolong the life of your fence, apply a treatment up to twice a year. This treatment should be a mixture of boiled linseed oil and turpentine. Our Fence Panel Protector contains enough treatment to cover both sides of up to four 6ft x 6ft fence panels.
5. Sustainable
Sustainability-minded homeowners are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact they have on the environment.
Musgrove Willows practises a carbon-neutral policy. Our fence panels are woven right here on our Somerset farm, where we grow willow using traditional, sustainable farming practises. We do this in various ways, including:
- Harvesting rainwater to wash our stripped willows.
- Generating electricity for our weaving sheds using solar panels.
- Using waste and offcut willow to fuel our willow boiler.
- Weeding our willow beds using cattle.
6. Durable and long-lasting
Each Musgrove Willows fence panel is woven from willow grown here on our farm. We leave the bark on the willow, increasing the fence’s longevity.
If treated regularly with Fence Panel Protector, a willow fence should continue to look good for many years to come.
Considering using willow fence panels to build a privacy fence? Musgrove Willows can help
Whether you’re interested in purchasing willow fencing to surround your garden and create a private space, or embarking on a different fencing project, we can help.
If you have any questions about our willow fencing or any of our willow products and willow weaving courses, please just contact the Musgrove team.
