Spotlight on Black Locust

Black Locust ‘Turbo’ continues to show robust growth across most Biomass Connect sites, with many plots benefiting from canopy closure that helps suppress weed competition. While the crop generally appears healthy and resilient, some sites reported signs of leaf yellowing, shrivelling, or minor fungal presence, likely linked to environmental stressors such as drought or wind. Hare damage remains a recurring issue at several locations, but no major pest or disease outbreaks were observed during the month.

North Wyke

No formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August, but previous observations indicated that the Black Locust trees were performing well, with good canopy closure and minimal weed pressure. Some leaf blotch and thorn-related damage had been noted previously, but no major concerns were raised.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, the Black Locust trees were reported to be green and producing new shoots, indicating active growth. However, hare damage was observed again this month, continuing a trend seen in previous reports. Despite this, the overall health of the crop appears stable.

Hillsborough

The Black Locust trees at Hillsborough showed signs of environmental stress, particularly on the south side of the plot where leaves appeared shrivelled and scorched. Nonetheless, soft new growth was still visible on many trees, suggesting ongoing recovery. Grass management was maintained through regular mowing.

Headley Hall

Conditions at Headley Hall were favourable for Black Locust, with the plot described as bushy and dense. Canopy closure was effective in suppressing weeds, and the trees maintained a healthy green appearance. Some leaf yellowing was noted, likely an early sign of seasonal senescence rather than a health issue.

Auchincruive

At Auchincruive, the Black Locust trees were generally healthy, though some leaves appeared dry and curled. These symptoms were attributed to drought or wind damage, and it was hoped that rainfall would help the crop recover. No pest or disease issues were reported.

Boghall

Boghall’s Black Locust trees continued to look healthy overall. Some white fungal growth was observed on the lower leaves, but it did not appear to be widespread or causing significant harm. The area around the plot was mowed and strimmed on August 1st to maintain site cleanliness.

Chesham

At BGI, the remaining Black Locust trees were reported to be healthy and coping well with the dry conditions. No pest or disease problems were observed, and only minor leaf loss was noted. One tree had previously flowered and was now producing seed pods, indicating successful development.

Aberystwyth

The Black Locust trees at Aberystwyth showed no signs of pest or disease. Herbicide was applied at the base of the trees to manage weeds, and the surrounding grass was cut. Some crinkling and dryness at the tips of new growth were observed, likely caused by wind burn, but overall the crop remained in good condition.

Spotlight on Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus plots across the Biomass Connect sites generally performed well in August, showing resilience and continued growth despite some environmental stress. Wind damage and leaning were noted in several locations, often linked to shallow rooting and exposure. Aphid presence was reported at a few sites, but no major pest outbreaks occurred, and the Tasmanian Eucalyptus Beetle was notably absent. Weed control measures remained effective, and regrowth was observed even in previously affected trees, indicating strong recovery potential.

North Wyke

Although no formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August, updated site photos confirmed that previous herbicide applications using the Herbidome were still effectively suppressing weeds at the base of the Eucalyptus trees. The trees appeared to be maintaining their health, with no new issues reported since the last visit.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, the Eucalyptus trees continued to grow well, with no signs of pest or hare damage. Herbicide was applied around the base of the trees using the Herbidome on August 20th, helping to keep the plot tidy and reduce weed competition.

Hillsborough

The Eucalyptus trees at Hillsborough were reported to be in excellent condition, with healthy growth and reduced insect activity. Only a few black aphid ovoid eggs were observed, and mowing frequency was reduced to fortnightly, reflecting the stable condition of the plot.

Headley Hall

Headley Hall’s Eucalyptus trees were mostly healthy, although some were leaning due to shallow root systems and increased canopy weight. New leaves were pale green, and some leaf decolourisation was noted, though it was unclear whether this was a natural shedding process or a sign of stress. No pests or diseases were confirmed, and the trees continued to thicken and grow.

Auchincruive

At Auchincruive, the Eucalyptus plot remained stable, with no new tree deaths reported. A high number of spiders were observed among the trees. Interrow mowing was completed on August 12th, but herbicide spraying was paused pending a September visit from B. Elliot. The site appears to be in good condition overall.

Boghall

Boghall’s Eucalyptus trees were described as sturdy, though some were leaning. Interrow mowing and herbicide spraying were carried out at the end of July, with further treatment planned. No pest or disease issues were reported, and the crop appears to be holding up well.

Chesham

At Chesham, the Eucalyptus trees showed healthy regrowth across the plot, particularly among the E. nitens specimens. No Tasmanian Eucalyptus Beetles or disease symptoms were observed, and the trees appeared to be recovering well from earlier stress. Growth was substantial, and the overall health of the crop was encouraging.

Aberystwyth

The Eucalyptus trees at Aberystwyth experienced some wind damage to new growth, but were otherwise putting on strong additional growth. Aphids were present on the tips of new shoots, though no disease was noted. Herbicide was applied at the base of the trees using a Herbidome to manage weeds, and some dieback of lower branches was observed, likely due to natural ageing or environmental stress.

Spotlight on Poplar

Poplar plots across the Biomass Connect sites showed generally strong performance in August, with most locations reporting healthy growth and good canopy development. While some signs of leaf loss and senescence were noted, particularly in response to drought and seasonal change, pest and disease issues remained minimal. Weed control was actively maintained, often using herbicide applied with Herbidome sprayers, and several sites observed vigorous regrowth and structural development. Overall, Poplar continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability across varied site conditions.

North Wyke

No formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August, but updated photos indicated that the SRC Poplar plot was growing well. Weed control from the previous visit, including herbicide application using the Herbidome, remained effective, and the trees appeared healthy and vigorous.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, both SRF and SRC Poplar plots were reported to be in good condition. No pest or disease damage was observed in the SRF Poplar, while the SRC Poplar showed some hare damage. Herbicide was applied around the base of the trees using the Herbidome on August 20th, helping to maintain weed suppression and support continued growth.

Hillsborough

The SRF Poplar at Hillsborough continued to look well, with canopy branches touching and good overall structure. A few hanging suckers were noted approximately two feet up the trunks. Mowing frequency was reduced from weekly to fortnightly, reflecting the stable condition of the plot. The SRC Poplar also looked healthy, with mowing and hand weeding carried out between rows, although herbicide spraying was delayed due to weather.

Headley Hall

At Headley Hall, the SRF Poplar trees showed signs of seasonal senescence, with leaf shedding observed across most varieties. AF7 appeared particularly thin. In contrast, the SRC Poplar was holding onto its foliage more effectively and showed no signs of senescence, indicating stronger late-season vitality.

Auchincruive

The SRF Poplar plot at Auchincruive suffered some storm damage, with five trees knocked down during Storm Floris. While efforts were made to support the fallen trees, larger specimens were too heavy to recover. Broken branches were removed on August 9th, and interrow mowing was completed earlier in the month. The SRC Poplar remained tall and green, with no disease observed. Herbicide was applied using the Herbidome on August 7th, and hand rogueing was planned to follow.

Boghall

Boghall’s SRF Poplar trees were described as big and leafy, showing strong growth. Herbicide was applied using the Herbidome on August 1st. The SRC Poplar also performed well, though some black leaf spot was noted. Weed control was maintained through interrow spraying, and the overall health of both plots was considered good.

Chesham

At Chesham, both SRF and SRC Poplar plots experienced substantial leaf loss due to drought stress. Despite this, the trees were generally healthy and showed signs of recovery following recent rainfall. No pest or disease issues were observed, and canopy density was improving.

Aberystwyth

The SRF Poplar at Aberystwyth showed no signs of pest or disease, and herbicide was applied at the base of the trees to manage weeds. Paths were also mown to maintain access. The SRC Poplar had minor leaf damage, possibly from caterpillars, though no larvae were found. Weed control was maintained through mowing and strimming between rows.

Spotlight on Miscanthus

Miscanthus crops across the Biomass Connect sites continued to grow well through August, with most plots showing strong canopy development and healthy foliage. Signs of seasonal senescence were beginning to appear, particularly in older stands and variety trials, with yellowing and browning of lower leaves. Miscanthus giganteus generally outperformed Athena in terms of height and density, though both varieties remained vigorous. Weed pressure was low in most areas, thanks to canopy closure and targeted management, though some gaps and persistent grasses were noted in younger or less established plots.

North Wyke

No formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August, but previous observations indicated that both Miscanthus giganteus and Athena were growing well, with the older Athena stand appearing more robust than the newer planting. Weed control had been maintained through mowing and strimming, and the plots were expected to continue performing well into late summer.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, Miscanthus giganteus reached heights of six feet and above, although some wind damage was noted following a recent storm, causing the tops of some plants to bend. Despite this, the crop remained healthy and free from disease. Miscanthus Athena also showed good growth with no signs of pest or hare damage.

Hillsborough

The Miscanthus giganteus plot at Hillsborough was described as very uniform and required no management during August. Athena was also performing well, though a few thistles remained around the perimeter and grass in the surrounding pathways was due to be cut. The 2023 variety trial had paths cut and some hand weeding of willow herb completed. In the 2024 trial, plants that had established were growing well, reaching heights of 4–5 feet, while plots that failed to establish remained untidy and required further weeding.

Headley Hall

At Headley Hall, Miscanthus giganteus showed good regrowth and density, though signs of senescence were visible in the lower leaves, which were turning yellow and brittle. Athena was growing reasonably well but remained less vigorous than giganteus, with some weed presence and uneven canopy cover. The 2023 variety trial was performing well after its first harvest, but signs of senescence were beginning to show. The 2024 trial had not reached the same height or density and was also showing signs of seasonal decline.

Auchincruive

Miscanthus giganteus at Auchincruive was reported to be growing very tall, bushy, and lush, with no issues noted. Athena was also healthy and continuing to grow taller.

Boghall

Boghall’s Miscanthus giganteus was tall and bushy, with no signs of disease or pest damage. Perimeter weed control was planned. Athena was also growing well, though some bare patches remained toward the bottom of the plot. Spot spraying and rogueing of couch grass were scheduled for September. The 2023 variety trial was performing well, with most varieties growing tall and healthy. The 2024 trial continued to struggle, with many plots appearing weedy and underdeveloped. Interplot mowing and spraying were planned for September.

Chesham

At Chesham, Miscanthus giganteus showed limited growth during August, with most leaves browning across the plot due to drought stress. Athena was more stable, maintaining green foliage and showing resilience despite the dry conditions.

Aberystwyth

The Miscanthus giganteus crop at Aberystwyth was growing well, with canopy closure helping to suppress weeds. Some leaf tip browning was observed, likely due to earlier drought, but the plants were actively recovering. Athena was also performing well, though some gaps remained in the canopy and weed grasses persisted in those areas. The 2023 variety trial was healthy, with closed canopies and no signs of pest or disease. The 2024 trial was also growing well, though gaps in the canopy allowed for weed establishment, which will need to be addressed after harvest.

Spotlight on Willow

Willow plots across the Biomass Connect sites showed mixed performance in August. Many locations reported strong canopy closure and healthy growth, though signs of seasonal senescence were beginning to appear. Pest pressure varied, with some sites noting sawfly damage, black spot, or beetle activity, while others remained largely unaffected. Weed management continued through mowing, herbicide application, and rogueing, and several sites planned additional treatment in September. The variety trials also showed variability, with some plots thriving and others showing signs of stress or insect damage.

North Wyke

No formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August. Previous observations indicated that the 0.5 ha SRC Willow plot was healthy, with some historic sawfly damage but no new pest issues. The variety trial had also shown signs of sawfly damage in earlier visits, particularly on Terra Nova and RR07160, though no new management actions were recorded.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, the 0.5 ha SRC Willow plot showed signs of leaf damage and black spot on many leaves. Hare damage was also observed, and the crop was beginning to senesce.

Hillsborough

The SRC Willow plot at Hillsborough was growing well, with weeds largely under control. The AFBI Entomology team continued to monitor the site with insect traps. In the variety trial, some yellowing was noted, particularly in the Challenger variety, where up to 70% of the foliage had turned yellow. Pathways between plots were scheduled for cutting.

Headley Hall

At Headley Hall, the 0.5 ha SRC Willow plot showed signs of insect activity, with many trees hosting small bugs not seen in previous weeks. Lower leaves had dropped, but the upper canopy remained intact. Necrotic branches were observed, especially in the Endurance variety, possibly due to its denser branching. The variety trial appeared unaffected by the bug issue and was growing well, though signs of senescence were beginning to show.

Auchincruive

The SRC Willow plot at Auchincruive had achieved complete canopy closure. Some deer damage was noted around the perimeter, and weed control was planned.

Boghall

Boghall’s 0.5 ha SRC Willow plot showed strong canopy closure, though sawfly damage was still visible. Green and blue willow beetles were abundant, and the site was also heavily populated with wasps. Herbicide was applied around the perimeter and spot spraying was carried out for thistles and docks. The variety trial was performing well overall, with some ghosting and midribbing noted but not extensively. Interrow mowing and spraying were scheduled for September.

Chesham

At Chesham, the SRC Willow plot showed signs of drought stress, with noticeable leaf loss. Despite this, the trees remained generally healthy and pest-free.

Aberystwyth

The SRC Willow plot at Aberystwyth showed signs of recovery from earlier sawfly damage, with new leaf growth appearing at the tips of stems. Some varieties exhibited black spot, and wide paths between double rows were cut to maintain access. In the variety trial, minor sawfly damage and black spot were observed on some varieties, but overall pest pressure was low.

Spotlight on Sida

Sida plots across the Biomass Connect sites continued to show vigorous growth in August, with most locations reporting flowering and strong vegetative development. While some signs of drought stress were noted, particularly in areas with limited rainfall, the crop generally demonstrated resilience, with new growth emerging even in affected plants. Weed control was actively maintained through mowing, spraying, and hand rogueing, and both rhizome and plug plantings appeared to be performing well.

North Wyke

No formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August. Previous observations indicated that the Sida plot was growing well and flowering, with high bee activity noted. Weed control had been managed through hand strimming and mowing around the plot.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, the Sida plants were flowering and appeared well established. Some black spotting was observed on the leaves, but most plants were present and healthy. No major pest or disease issues were reported.

Hillsborough

The Sida plot at Hillsborough was in full flower, with most weeds under control. No pest or disease problems were noted, and the crop appeared to be thriving. Management actions focused on maintaining clean paths and removing any remaining weeds.

Headley Hall

Sida at Headley Hall was performing well, with many plants still flowering. A few plants were beginning to senesce, showing yellowing and browning of stems and leaves. Despite this, the overall health of the crop remained strong, and no pest or disease issues were reported.

Auchincruive

At Auchincruive, Sida was growing rapidly and had reached impressive height, with most plants now flowering. Hand rogueing was planned to manage remaining weeds. The crop appeared vigorous and healthy, with no significant concerns noted.

Boghall

Boghall’s Sida plot showed strong growth, particularly among the rhizome-planted specimens, which were described as massive, green, and healthy. Most had flowered. Plug plants were smaller but also healthy, with tight flower buds. Hand rogueing was planned to maintain weed control.

Chesham

At Chesham, Sida showed signs of drought stress, with leaf loss and limited growth observed. However, new leaf growth was emerging from the lower stems, indicating resilience. No pests or diseases were observed, and the crop was expected to recover with improved conditions.

Aberystwyth

The Sida plot at Aberystwyth was healthy, with no signs of pest or disease. Weeds between the rows had been cut using a bladed strimmer, and the crop was flowering well. The plants appeared vigorous and well established.

Spotlight on Reed Canary Grass

Reed Canary Grass showed steady growth across most Biomass Connect sites during August, though signs of drought stress and nutrient deficiency were beginning to emerge in some locations. While pest and disease issues remained minimal, several plots exhibited browning or chlorosis in the lower leaves. Weed management was ongoing, with mowing and herbicide treatments planned or carried out at multiple sites. Overall, the crop remains well established but may benefit from additional monitoring and support as conditions dry.

North Wyke

No formal report was submitted for North Wyke in August. Previous visits had noted good establishment and competitive growth against native grasses, with some lodging observed in wetter areas. Mowing had been used to define the plot and maintain access.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, Reed Canary Grass continued to perform well, with very good growth and no signs of pest, disease, or animal damage. The crop appeared vigorous and well maintained, with no additional interventions required during the reporting period.

Hillsborough

The Reed Canary Grass plot at Hillsborough showed signs of stress, with browning of the lower leaves and an overall chlorotic appearance. No pest or disease issues were reported, but the visual symptoms suggest a need for closer monitoring or possible nutrient support.

Headley Hall

At Headley Hall, the Reed Canary Grass plot was described as having good growth across the entire area. The crop had headed and seed shedding was underway. Sampling instructions were awaited, and no pest or disease issues were noted.

Auchincruive

Reed Canary Grass at Auchincruive was scheduled for re-spraying and mowing in September. No specific observations were recorded for August, but the crop was expected to benefit from renewed weed control efforts.

Boghall

Boghall’s Reed Canary Grass plot was also due for re-spraying and mowing in September. No detailed observations were provided for August, but the crop was being managed as part of routine seasonal maintenance.

Chesham

At Chesham, limited growth was observed in the Reed Canary Grass plot, likely due to dry conditions. No pest or disease issues were reported, but the crop appeared to be underperforming compared to previous months.

Aberystwyth

The Reed Canary Grass plot at Aberystwyth was actively managed, with large thistles removed by hand. No signs of pest or disease were observed, and the crop appeared healthy and well established.

Spotlight on Switchgrass

Switchgrass performance remained modest across the Biomass Connect sites in August, with most plots showing limited growth and signs of delayed establishment. While pest and disease issues were minimal, competition from weeds and dry conditions continued to hinder development. Management efforts focused on mowing, spraying, and creating conditions to support seedling emergence. Despite slow progress, some sites reported signs of recovery and active growth, suggesting potential for improvement with continued care and favourable weather.

Cockle Park Farm

At Cockle Park, Switchgrass remained slow-growing and lacked vigour. No pest or disease damage was observed, and hare activity was absent. The crop continues to struggle with establishment, and no significant improvement was noted during the month.

Headley Hall

Switchgrass at Headley Hall showed good growth across the plot, with thistles that had previously been present now removed. The crop appeared to be recovering well, and sampling instructions were awaited. No pest or disease issues were reported.

Auchincruive

At Auchincruive, Switchgrass was scheduled for re-spraying and mowing in September. No specific observations were recorded for August, but the crop was included in the site’s broader weed management plans.

Boghall

Boghall’s Switchgrass plot was also due for re-spraying and mowing in September. No detailed observations were provided for August, and the crop was being managed as part of routine seasonal maintenance.

Chesham

At Chesham, Switchgrass showed limited growth, likely due to dry conditions. No pest or disease issues were observed, but the crop remained underdeveloped and was not performing as expected.

Aberystwyth

The Switchgrass plot at Aberystwyth showed early signs of seedling emergence, though weed competition remained a concern. Broadleaf weeds were sprayed with herbicide, and a high cut was taken to remove excess material and support grass seedling growth. The crop appears to be slowly establishing.