Why hessian?
Hessian, also known as burlap, jute and crocus, is a natural product made from the skin of the jute plant or from sisal fibres, originating in India in the 1600s. The term ‘hessian’ originates from the natural fabric once used in the uniforms of Hessian soldiers from the region now known as Hesse, Germany—valued then, as now, for its durability and eco-friendly qualities. The primary difference between the different types is the fineness of the quality. It was initially used as a coarse fabric, though it is now often woven to a finer state for more delicate applications, such as to make bags.
Aside from being another natural product, we love the fact that each one is slightly different to the next. Eventually, once your product has had its run of protecting you and your loved ones from the wind, the discarded hessian has a plethora of uses in your garden while it slowly decomposes back to its natural state with no plastic legacy.
Why wooden poles without metal?
During the prototype stage we needed parts, and our requirements were simple – natural! Experience had told us that most wooden poles were too thin and of poor quality. Many of the better-quality offerings had posts capped with metal points and caps which inevitably detached or broke off. This led us to a requirement for lengths of at least 5 foot and a wider diameter, which we have had shaped at the Portsea Men’s Shed and leave in a natural state.
If kept dry and used sensibly and safely, the posts could last for many years. When they do reach the end of their windbreak life, they will rot down and feed the hedgehogs, beetles and suchlike .
