Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia ‘Turbo’) continues to emerge from its winter dormancy across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs this April. Known for its nitrogen-fixing roots and durable timber, this species is showing a mixed picture — with strong early growth at some hubs and signs of winter stress or wildlife pressure at others.

At Chesham, 41 Black Locust plants were confirmed alive and in bud as of late April, following a maximum plant count of 98 earlier in the season. The team plans to reassess survival rates in May. Bud burst was clearly visible around the thorns — a promising sign of vitality.

At Headley Hall, new yellow buds were forming on the bushes by mid-April, showing encouraging signs of spring activity. No major pest or disease issues were reported.

At Cockle Park Farm, leaves have started to appear on the Black Locust trees, although many are showing a yellow hue. Hare damage has been noted at this site — a recurring challenge for young, palatable trees in exposed environments.

At North Wyke, Black Locust is described as growing well, with leaves emerging — albeit yellow in colour. Some buttercup weed pressure remains in the planted rows, which the team targeted with careful herbicide application. A few lower branches appear dead, but overall, winter losses have been minimal.

At Hillsborough, Black Locust trees are leafing out evenly across the plot. Weed control and mowing have been carried out, helping the trees get off to a clean start this season.

At Aberystwyth, the Black Locust planting shows some winter losses, with 116 plants currently alive. Inter-row spraying has been completed and no pest damage has been reported.

At Auchincruive, buds are bursting and small leaves are starting to emerge. Despite the plant’s thorny nature, inter-row spraying was carried out, and strimming is planned where feasible to manage weeds and promote healthy early growth.

At Boghall, inter-row spraying was also completed in April, and some plant losses were noted. A tidy-up and removal of dead trees is scheduled for early May.

Across the Biomass Connect sites, Black Locust is proving hardy and promising, though not without its challenges. Winter dieback, herbivore pressure, and delayed bud burst are all reminders of the need for careful site selection and monitoring — but with solid early-season growth now visible at many hubs, this versatile species continues to show potential for biomass systems in the UK.

Eucalyptus — prized for its fast growth, evergreen foliage, and high biomass yield — has shown mixed progress this April across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs. While many sites report vigorous new growth, others are contending with the legacy of winter frost and storm damage.

At Chesham, Eucalyptus is growing tall and looking healthy, with good support stakes installed in March still holding up well. A full plant count is planned for May, but so far, observations indicate strong performance this season.

At Headley Hall, most Eucalyptus trees are in good condition, but one tree has turned entirely red — possibly due to water stress, as the site has received very little rain this spring. Weed control between trees was managed using Roundup Energy via knapsack sprayer to reduce competition.

At Cockle Park Farm, Eucalyptus trees are progressing well overall. New growth is visible, and no hare or disease damage has been observed. However, some plants still show signs of frost damage, underlining the species’ sensitivity to cold exposure.

At North Wyke, Eucalyptus plots experienced notable challenges over the winter. Around 15 trees were blown over due to wind rock, prompting the team to re-stake and straighten the affected plants. Some frost damage was seen, particularly on E. dalrympleana, and potentially one E. nitens was lost. Despite these setbacks, many plants are recovering, and weed control has been increased to aid establishment.

At Hillsborough, the trees are “growing very well,” with E. nitens and E. dalrympleana leading in early growth. Frost damage remains visible on some of the new leaders, and aphid-like insects are becoming more prevalent, though no major harm has been reported. Weed control and mowing were completed to keep rows clean.

At Aberystwyth, plants are generally growing well, though some aphids and blackfly have been spotted on new growth. These appear to be causing minimal damage so far. Inter-row mowing has helped keep conditions favourable for continued growth.

The picture is more concerning at Auchincruive, where leaves on many trees remain brown and dry — a significant contrast to last spring. Some trees may have been lost, potentially due to waterlogging over winter. Improved supports are being sourced, and inter-row spraying has been completed to reduce weed pressure.

At Boghall, Eucalyptus trees have been tended with inter-row spraying, and efforts are ongoing to stabilise lopsided trees with additional supports. Mowing and strimming are planned for May to improve site conditions.

Eucalyptus remains one of the more sensitive biomass species, with frost, wind, and waterlogging presenting real challenges at some sites. However, where conditions are favourable, it is showing strong early growth. With close monitoring, improved support, and good weed management, many hubs are optimistic for solid recovery and development as the growing season continues.

Poplar — a cornerstone species for both Short Rotation Coppice (SRC) and Short Rotation Forestry (SRF) biomass systems — is transitioning confidently into the growing season across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs. While some plots are fully leafed out, others are still emerging from dormancy, reflecting the crop’s responsiveness to local climate and site conditions.

At Chesham, SRF Poplar is leafing up nicely, with shiny new foliage developing well across the plot. The SRC Poplar is also progressing well and showing uniform green-up.

At Headley Hall, both SRF and SRC Poplar trees have new leaves, though their reddish-yellow tinge has raised some questions. This could be natural early pigmentation or a result of the prolonged dry conditions, with less than 4mm of rain recorded through April.

At Cockle Park Farm, SRF Poplar is greening up steadily, with no signs of disease or hare damage. The SRC Poplar has begun producing new leaves, though some hare browsing has been reported — a reminder of the need for effective fencing or deterrents.

At North Wyke, SRF and SRC Poplar plots are both doing well. Leaf expansion is underway, though some minor storm damage was reported on secondary branches. The team noted blackening on the leaves of variety AF7, potentially due to frost or early signs of disease, which has not affected other varieties. Weed control using multiple passes of glyphosate and careful strimming has been carried out to suppress competitive species like buttercup.

At Hillsborough, both SRF and SRC Poplar plots are showing healthy spring growth, with small leaves emerging across all varieties. The grass between rows has been mown to reduce competition and aid early development.

At Aberystwyth, SRF Poplar plots have seen minor insect damage but are otherwise progressing well. The SRC Poplar trees are also growing strongly, with weed management completed around the base of the trees to support clean growth.

At Auchincruive, SRF Poplar trees are just beginning to break bud, with many buds still tight but on the verge of bursting. Weed control has been completed and strimming is scheduled to maintain clear growing space. Similarly, SRC Poplar is developing at a varied pace, with some trees showing early leaves while others remain in bud.

At Boghall, SRF Poplar shows a mix of red-coloured tight buds and emerging leaves, indicating it is close to full bud burst. SRC Poplar is slightly further along, with small leaves now visible on most trees. Inter-row spraying and rogueing of volunteer trees were carried out in April.

At Hillsborough, small leaves are also emerging on all Poplar varieties. The grass has been mown across the site, aiding establishment and visibility of new growth.

With early growth now visible at all sites, Poplar is shaping up for a productive season. This adaptable species continues to perform reliably across a wide range of UK conditions — though like all biomass crops, it benefits from good weed control, pest monitoring, and careful attention to early spring development.

As one of the UK’s leading perennial biomass crops, Miscanthus is pushing into its 2025 growth cycle with strong signs of recovery and development across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs. With harvest now complete at all sites, attention has turned to weed control and monitoring new growth — especially within the Miscanthus giganteus and Miscanthus Athena plots, as well as the expanding variety trials.

At Headley Hall, both Miscanthus giganteus and Miscanthus Athena are showing healthy new green growth after harvest. Some leaf browning has been noted, likely due to ongoing dry conditions, with less than 4mm of rain recorded during April. Creeping thistles have been spotted in the 2023 and 2024 variety trial plots, and weed control measures are being prepared.

At Chesham, both M. giganteus and Miscanthus Athena were harvested in March and are now being monitored for creeping thistle regrowth. Updates on weed management outcomes are expected in the coming month.

At Cockle Park Farm, new shoots are emerging in both M. giganteus and Miscanthus Athena plots, with no signs of disease. Some hare damage has been observed in the giganteus plot, reinforcing the need for ongoing wildlife protection. Variety trials were not active this month.

At North Wyke, Miscanthus Athena is performing well across the plot, particularly in the 2023-planted section, which is dense and suppressing weeds naturally. The 2023 and 2024 variety trial plots have good post-cutback growth, with spot spraying carefully applied to maintain clean rows.

At Hillsborough, both M. giganteus and Miscanthus Athena plots are regrowing well with no active management this month. The 2023 and 2024 variety trial plots were treated with glyphosate using a Herbidome, helping maintain strong early-season weed control.

At Aberystwyth, both M. giganteus and Miscanthus Athena plots are growing well. Some creeping thistles and general weed pressure have been noted, particularly in border areas. Inter-row spraying and mowing have been completed in the 2023 and 2024 variety trials, with plants emerging evenly across the site.

At Auchincruive, both M. giganteus and Miscanthus Athena were cut in late March. Plots are now showing strong green shoots, with post-emergent spraying planned. Though the variety trials are not active at this site, all Miscanthus stands are recovering well.

At Boghall, M. giganteus was also cut in March, with bales used for livestock bedding. New shoots are emerging in both giganteus and Athena plots. The 2024 variety trial shows mixed performance — some plots are struggling, and post-emergent spraying is being carefully timed to protect cover crops like clover planted in specific plots.

At Hillsborough, no additional intervention was needed, and both varieties appear to be establishing naturally.

Across all hubs, Miscanthus is moving strongly into the season, with well-timed cutting, careful herbicide management, and early weed control all contributing to good early performance. As the plants gain height and ground coverage increases, the focus will shift to yield potential and resilience — particularly in the variety trials, which continue to provide key insights for future commercial deployment.

Willow is one of the most consistent performers across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs, and April 2025 was no exception. With new leaves, catkins, and healthy canopy development being reported at nearly every site, both commercial plots and variety trials are showing vigorous early-season growth.

At Headley Hall, the 0.5 ha SRC Willow plot is leafing out well, with no recurrence of last year’s leaf curl issues. Minor insect holes were spotted on some new leaves, but numbers are very low and not causing concern. The Willow Variety Trial is also showing good new growth across all varieties.

At Chesham, the SRC Willow plot is progressing well, with healthy leaf emergence and catkins visible. No pest or disease issues have been reported. Regular maintenance of grass aisles and fencing has helped maintain optimal growing conditions.

At Cockle Park Farm, Willow is growing strongly with lots of new foliage. Some varieties are producing catkins, and while no disease or insect damage has been observed, hare damage has been noted in the Willow Variety Trial, prompting ongoing monitoring.

At North Wyke, the main SRC Willow plot is showing healthy regrowth. Notably, the black spot disease that affected plants last year has not reappeared, and even the smaller, previously affected plants are looking vigorous. In the Willow Variety Trial, the team successfully identified the sex of the Corvinus variety this month, confirming it as female — thanks to the late development of catkins.

At Hillsborough, all Willow varieties are now in full leaf and beginning to add new growth. Weed control has not been required this month, as the plots are managing well on their own.

At Aberystwyth, the SRC Willow and Willow Variety Trial plots are growing well, with only minor insect damage observed. Inter-row mowing has been completed to help reduce competition and maintain plot access.

At Auchincruive, the SRC Willow plot is described as “very green and leafy,” with fluffy catkins still present. The canopy is closing in rapidly, suggesting excellent early development. Spot spraying for docks and thistles is planned, and strimming may follow if needed.

At Boghall, the SRC Willow plot is “getting very green and leafy,” and the Willow Variety Trial shows similar performance across all varieties. Inter-row and spot spraying are scheduled to keep weeds in check as the season progresses.

From well-established commercial stands to closely monitored variety trials, Willow continues to prove its worth as a reliable and productive biomass crop. With full canopies forming and minimal disease pressure so far this season, the outlook for 2025 is strong.

Sida (Sida hermaphrodita), a robust perennial herbaceous crop with potential for biomass production on marginal land, is showing steady and healthy growth across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs this April. With warmer temperatures and dry conditions prevailing in many regions, the focus has been on early establishment, weed control, and assessing nutrient needs as plants move into their active growth phase.

At Chesham, Sida plants are growing strongly, reaching 6 inches or more by the end of April. Buds began emerging from the rhizomes in early April, and the crop now appears well-established. Regular photographic updates show a healthy, uniform stand.

At Headley Hall, there is substantial new growth, though a few plants are displaying yellowing — likely a sign of water stress following a very dry April. No pest issues have been reported, and the crop is otherwise progressing well.

At Cockle Park Farm, green shoots are appearing and the planted rows are becoming clearly visible. Growth is steady, and there are no major pest or disease concerns.

At North Wyke, many Sida plants are present and healthy. Weed control has been carefully managed using inter-row application of glyphosate with a Herbidome applicator to avoid crop contact, keeping competition to a minimum during early growth.

At Hillsborough, Sida is growing strongly, though some chlorosis (yellowing) was observed. In response, a small amount of slow-release fertiliser was applied, alongside slug pellets to combat early slug damage to new shoots. Hand weeding and mowing between rows were also completed, with further spraying planned.

At Aberystwyth, the crop is progressing well overall, though some plants remain very yellow — likely another case of nutrient or water stress. No pest damage has been observed, and weed control has been carried out.

At Auchincruive, Sida is “getting bigger,” with most plants greening up well. Old stems were removed and a tidy-up carried out on 29 April. Some spot spraying may be needed to deal with emerging weeds without harming young plants.

At Boghall, both rhizome- and plug-propagated plants are establishing well and greening up nicely. A clean-up of dead stems was completed on 24 April to make space for the new season’s growth.

Sida is clearly benefiting from proactive early-season management, with strong growth reported at most sites. While yellowing and slug damage have occurred in a few locations, timely interventions with fertiliser and pest control measures are helping support a successful start to the season for this promising low-input biomass crop.

Reed Canary Grass (RCG) continues to demonstrate its value as a tough, moisture-tolerant biomass crop across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs. Known for its resilience and suitability for marginal or wetter soils, RCG is steadily re-emerging this April, with site teams focusing on weed suppression and monitoring growth consistency.

At Headley Hall, RCG is showing good new growth, with plots looking thick and green — a strong visual indicator of robust early establishment despite a prolonged dry spell.

At Chesham, there was nothing significant to report this month, which in itself is a sign of stability. The crop appears to be maintaining its course without notable pest, disease, or weather-related issues.

At Cockle Park Farm, Reed Canary Grass is now green and recovering well from winter. No signs of disease or browsing damage have been observed — a reassuring outcome given the hare pressure noted in other species at the site.

At North Wyke, edges around the plot were strimmed, and while the exact stand density is still under assessment, initial impressions suggest RCG is establishing better than the adjacent Switchgrass. Weed management will be adjusted as more is understood about crop distribution and competition.

At Hillsborough, RCG is growing well, with “tufty” patches indicating strong performance in parts of the plot. However, there’s noticeable variation between the top and bottom ends of the site, possibly due to microclimatic differences or soil variability. Monitoring will continue to guide any intervention.

At Aberystwyth, RCG is emerging through competing weeds, and creeping thistles have been spot-sprayed. No pest issues have been reported, and the crop is expected to gain further ground as temperatures rise.

At Auchincruive, a spray-off is planned for early May to give RCG the space it needs to outcompete surrounding vegetation and encourage uniform development.

At Boghall, weed control is also high on the agenda, with a spray-off scheduled ASAP. The crop is establishing steadily, and mowing of grass aisles around the plot was completed in mid-April.

With few pest pressures and a natural ability to tolerate wet ground and fluctuating conditions, Reed Canary Grass is proving to be a reliable low-maintenance option within the biomass portfolio. As weed competition is addressed across sites, RCG is well-positioned to continue its slow but steady emergence into the 2025 season.

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), a warm-season C4 grass adapted to low-input systems, is known for its late spring emergence — and this trait has been on full display across the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hubs in April 2025. While slower to establish than other species, early signs of activity are beginning to show, and teams are focused on weed management and monitoring stand viability as the season begins.

At Headley Hall, new growth is visible at the base of the plants, suggesting that Switchgrass is beginning to respond to warming temperatures. The team is optimistic that with some rainfall and continued warm weather, growth will accelerate in the coming weeks.

At Chesham, there was nothing significant to report this month — a typical scenario for Switchgrass at this time of year. Its delayed emergence means it will be monitored more closely throughout May.

At Cockle Park Farm, new shoots are starting to appear, and there are no signs of pest or disease issues. The plants are holding their own in the early stages of growth, and the team will continue to monitor progress as spring advances.

At North Wyke, Switchgrass plots have been strimmed around the edges, though overall emergence is still low. The team is unsure of actual stand numbers, but this isn’t unusual for a C4 grass at this time of year. Final assessments and decisions on possible reseeding will follow as growth becomes clearer.

At Hillsborough, the Switchgrass plot has been ploughed and is currently awaiting reseeding decisions. This action reflects poor establishment in previous seasons and aims to reset the site for a better outcome.

At Aberystwyth, the Switchgrass area was treated with herbicide to remove weeds in preparation for re-sowing — part of a broader plan to improve establishment after underperformance last year.

At Auchincruive, a spray-off is scheduled for early May, helping to remove weed competition ahead of the expected surge in Switchgrass growth as temperatures continue to rise.

At Boghall, a similar approach is being taken, with a spray-off also planned to clear the way for Switchgrass to emerge cleanly and establish more evenly across the plot.

Switchgrass may be a slow starter, but with its deep roots and long-term productivity, it’s worth the wait. As temperatures climb through May and June, site managers expect clearer signs of stand development and will be watching closely to determine whether reseeding is necessary in any plots. For now, the crop is behaving exactly as expected — patient, but promising.