Every Succoth we sell the willow ערבה and myrtle הדס. These are 2 of the four species included in the Succoth celebration. We also grow the other 2 species, the citron אתרוג and palm branch לולב. (We don't grow enough of these to sell.)
 |
| Willow |
 |
| Mertyle: They already started cutting |
We grow willow and mertyle trees. All year long we take care of these, trying to produce trees with the nicest branches. Before the holiday we cut the branches. We package them in plastic bags ready to sell.
 |
| Packaged and Ready for Sale |
Beit Gamliel, where we live, is known for its willows. There are several families here with fields of willow trees and they make a large part of their annual income in this season.
We are not that large. We started with one tree several years ago and have been adding every year. Originally it was Eitan,s business and he worked with some friends. As the other boys got older the 3 of them have taken over the whole thing. Harry and I help. Since we have expanded, this year the girls are helping too.
 |
| Eli Checking the Mertyle |
 |
| Bentzi with the mertyle |
Now is the high pressure season. Every year we are slightly more professional. In the past the boys have worked either in the fields or in the animal pen in an enclosed area.
The best time to work is in the dark. The sun and heat will ruin the cut branches
This year they set up a "factory". They are using a shed we have. Eitan found someone who was trying to get rid of an old refrigerator. We added an air conditioner. This way they have a cool place to work and they should be able to do more during the day.
 |
| Outside the "Factory"" |
 |
| Inside |
Right before the holiday they will set up stands in some local cities. They sell almost ever day. The willow often wilts so many people will buy new willows. The last day of the holiday is Hoshanah Rabbah when each person beats the willow on the ground.
