Treebeard would have split his bark with envy.

Erlandson sitting on a natural chair crafted out of trees.

Swedish-American farmer Axel Erlandson had a way of coaxing trees to do the most astonishing things, was highly secretive about his methods, and took his secrets to the grave. His trees were originally exhibited at his Tree Circus, and many were moved to Gilroy Gardens where they can be seen today.

The “two-leg tree”

Needle-and-thread tree

The Basket Tree

The Cube Tree

Hook and Eye

Another Cube Tree

Squared Circle

Knot

It’s a shame these techniques were lost.  It would have been wonderful had Erlandson been able to pass his work down to the next generation. But as long as his trees live, others will be able to marvel at his skill.

The Old Wolf has spoken.