As spring begins to take hold, the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs across the UK have been busy monitoring plant development, preparing plots, and carrying out essential early-season management.

As winter transitions into spring, activity across the Biomass Connect demonstrator hubs has been steadily progressing. Despite challenging weather conditions—marked by cold temperatures, frosts, and heavy rainfall—our teams have been actively managing crop health, conducting harvests, and preparing for the upcoming growing season.

The past few months have presented a mix of challenges and progress across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs. Harsh winter conditions, including prolonged periods of frost, heavy rainfall, and multiple storms—most notably Storm Éowyn—have tested the resilience of crops.

The Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs across the UK have shown varying progress as winter approaches, reflecting both the resilience of certain crops and regional differences in weather conditions. Across the sites, senescence is a dominant theme, with many perennial crops entering dormancy while some continue to show growth in favourable conditions.

Progress across the Biomass Connect sites demonstrates encouraging growth and development as crops transition into the autumn season.

At the Hillsborough Demonstrator Hub, crops are progressing through seasonal transitions. SRF species like alder and black locust are well into senescence, with Eucalyptus growth steady and above guards after replanting. Miscanthus giganteus and Athena both demonstrate strong growth, with Athena showing slightly more lodging. SRC willow has largely senesced, displaying visible allelopathy effects reducing weed growth beneath the canopy, while clover thrives at plot edges. Maintenance activities included autumn phenotyping, mowing, and targeted herbicide applications to manage weeds in select plots. Some species like Sida and Reed Canary Grass show slower growth, with Switchgrass plots requiring further evaluation.

At the Aberystwyth Demonstrator Hub, crops show steady progress with seasonal changes. SRF species, including alder and black locust, are dropping leaves, with Eucalyptus demonstrating significant active growth. Miscanthus giganteus is thriving at around 2m tall, with some flowering, while grass weeds in Miscanthus Athena plots remain manageable. SRC willow and variety trials display mixed stages of leaf loss and limited signs of insect damage. Maintenance, such as mowing to control broadleaf weeds in reed canary grass and switchgrass plots, is ongoing to support crop healt

At the Chesham Demonstrator Hub, crops are progressing well with expected seasonal changes. SRF species, including alder and Eucalyptus, show varied senescence stages, while SRC willow remains largely green. Miscanthus phenotyping was recently completed, with both giganteus and Athena demonstrating robust growth above competing weeds. Routine rust scoring and maintenance, including weekly fencing inspections, ensure effective management.

Progress at the Headley Hall Demonstrator Hub has been steady, with crops showing expected seasonal changes. SRF and SRC species like poplar and willow are advancing through senescence, while Miscanthus varieties, particularly Athena, exhibit strong growth. Weed management has been a priority, with glyphosate applications and some targeted treatments. Maintenance activities, including grass flailing and fence inspections, ensure the site remains well-managed and prepared for winter operations.