Spotlight on Black Locust

Black Locust continued to perform well across most sites in September, maintaining green foliage and strong canopy structure. While rust was recorded at several locations, it was generally low-level and not considered a major concern. Hare damage persisted at some sites, and wind damage was noted in exposed areas. Overall, the crop remains resilient, with good growth and minimal pest or disease pressure as the season transitions toward autumn.

North Wyke

At North Wyke, rust scoring was completed on September 22nd. Some trees showed early signs of senescence, but overall health remained good. Weed pressure was minimal thanks to canopy closure, and grass surrounds were mowed on September 23rd. Evidence of rat holes was observed around the plot, though these did not appear to be causing damage to the trees.

Cockle Park Farm

The Black Locust plot at Cockle Park retained green foliage and continued to produce new shoots. Hare damage was noted during assessments on September 16th–17th, but no significant pest or disease issues were reported. The crop remains vigorous despite localized browsing.

Hillsborough

At Hillsborough, Black Locust trees were mostly healthy and green, though some showed shrivelled or scorched leaves, possibly due to environmental stress. No major pest or disease problems were observed, and the plot was kept clean through regular mowing.

Headley Hall

Headley Hall’s Black Locust trees maintained a healthy green canopy, with no signs of senescence reported. Phenotype scoring proved challenging due to the height and density of the trees, which limited access to designated sample plants. Rust scoring was completed on September 17th.

Auchincruive

At Auchincruive, Black Locust remained green and showed no signs of senescence. Perimeter weeds were mowed on September 5th, and rust scoring was completed on September 24th. The crop continues to perform well under current conditions.

Boghall

Boghall’s Black Locust trees were still looking green and healthy in September. Perimeter mowing and strimming were carried out on September 11th, and rust and herbivore damage data were collected on September 23rd. No significant pest or disease issues were reported.

Chesham

At Chesham, the remaining Black Locust trees appeared healthy, with green foliage and no signs of chlorosis. Some blackening at leaf margins was observed, but there was no widespread defoliation or insect damage. Overall, the crop is coping well with seasonal changes.

Aberystwyth

The Black Locust plot at Aberystwyth showed no signs of pest or disease. However, strong winds in mid-September caused some damage to larger plants. Despite this, the crop remains in good condition and continues to demonstrate resilience.

Spotlight on Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus continued to perform strongly across most sites in September, benefiting from recent rainfall that improved canopy development and overall vigour. While leaning trees and minor insect activity were noted at some locations, there were no major pest outbreaks, and Tasmanian Eucalyptus Beetle was not reported. Rust scoring was completed at several sites, and weed control measures remained effective. Overall, Eucalyptus is entering autumn in good condition, with strong growth and minimal disease pressure.

North Wyke

At North Wyke, rust scoring was carried out on September 22nd. Weed control from previous visits was still effective, and inter-row mowing and strimming were completed on September 23rd. Some trees were leaning, and a large beetle was observed, though it was confirmed not to be the Tasmanian Eucalyptus Beetle. No significant pest damage was reported.

Cockle Park Farm

Eucalyptus at Cockle Park was assessed on September 16th–17th and found to be growing well. No hare damage was observed, and only occasional leaf-eating was noted. The plot remains healthy and stable as the season progresses.

Hillsborough

The Eucalyptus plot at Hillsborough looked very good, with clear differences between varieties noted. No pest or disease issues were reported, and the trees maintained strong growth and canopy cover.

Headley Hall

At Headley Hall, Eucalyptus trees showed impressive height and had greened up following recent rains. Some leaves displayed yellow or brown speckles, though the cause was unclear. Rust scoring was completed on September 23rd, and photos were added to the shared drive for further review.

Auchincruive

Eucalyptus at Auchincruive remained healthy, with no further tree deaths reported. The plot showed no signs of senescence, and spider activity was noted among the trees. Rust scoring was completed on September 24th, and inter-row spraying was scheduled for October.

Boghall

Boghall’s Eucalyptus plot was maintained with inter-row mowing on September 11th and herbicide application using the Herbidome on September 12th. Rust and herbivore damage data were collected on September 23rd. The trees appeared healthy and stable, with no major pest or disease concerns.

Chesham

At Chesham, Eucalyptus demonstrated strong recovery and growth following earlier drought stress. Significant new top growth was observed, supported by recent rainfall. Only minor insect damage was noted, and overall tree performance was excellent.

Aberystwyth

Eucalyptus at Aberystwyth showed no signs of pest damage or disease, though aphids were present on some plants. Wind damage from mid-September affected a few trees, but this did not significantly impact overall growth. The crop remains vigorous and well established.

Spotlight on Poplar

Poplar plots across the Biomass Connect sites maintained good overall health in September, with most trees still green and showing strong growth. Rust was observed at several sites, though generally at low levels, and insect damage remained minimal. Seasonal senescence was beginning in some SRF plots, while SRC Poplar retained more foliage. Weed control continued through mowing and herbicide application, and structural maintenance such as tree guard removal was carried out where needed. Overall, Poplar remains a robust performer as autumn approaches.

North Wyke

At North Wyke, rust scoring was completed on September 22nd for SRF Poplar and September 23rd for SRC Poplar. Only low-level rust was observed, and no significant pest damage was noted. Trees appeared to be growing well, with little evidence of senescence. Weed control from previous visits was still effective, and inter-row mowing was carried out on September 23rd. Tree guards and canes were removed on September 25th.

Cockle Park Farm

The SRF Poplar plot at Cockle Park showed good health, with only minor rust and occasional leaf damage recorded during assessments on September 16th–17th. SRC Poplar displayed similar resilience, though some hare damage and leaf eating were noted. Overall, both plots remain vigorous.

Hillsborough

At Hillsborough, SRF Poplar trees looked healthy, with no leaf drop reported. Rows were kept clean and clear, and mowing between rows continued as part of routine maintenance. SRC Poplar also retained its foliage well, with no signs of senescence and minimal pest activity.

Headley Hall

Headley Hall’s SRF Poplar trees showed signs of leaf loss, particularly on lower branches, while higher branches retained foliage. SRC Poplar maintained more leaves overall and appeared healthier than SRF Poplar. Rust scoring was completed on September 17th, and insect damage was limited to minor holes and black spots on a few leaves.

Auchincruive

At Auchincruive, SRF Poplar experienced storm damage, with five trees knocked down during Storm Floris. Attempts to support fallen trees were unsuccessful for larger specimens, which have now died. Broken branches were removed, and inter-row spraying using the Herbidome was completed on September 4th. SRC Poplar remained green with no signs of senescence and was also treated with herbicide on the same date.

Boghall

Boghall’s SRF Poplar trees were mostly green, though some signs of senescence were beginning to appear. Herbicide was applied using the Herbidome on September 12th, and rust and herbivore damage data were collected on September 23rd. SRC Poplar remained largely green, with some black leaf spot noted. Rust scoring was completed on September 25th.

Chesham

At Chesham, both SRF and SRC Poplar plots responded well to recent rainfall, showing strong top growth and healthy foliage. No yellowing was observed, and insect activity was minimal. The trees appear well established and in excellent condition heading into autumn.

Aberystwyth

Poplar at Aberystwyth showed no major pest issues, though rust was present on some plants. Wind burn from mid-September was noted on a few leaves, but overall health remained good. Both SRF and SRC plots continue to perform well under current conditions.

Spotlight on Miscanthus

Miscanthus crops across the Biomass Connect sites continued to perform well through September, with most plots maintaining strong canopy cover and healthy foliage. Seasonal senescence was becoming more evident, particularly in older stands and variety trials, with lower leaves yellowing and browning. Miscanthus giganteus generally remained taller and denser than Athena, though both varieties showed good resilience and growth. Weed pressure was minimal thanks to canopy closure and ongoing perimeter management, though some gaps persisted in younger or less established plots.

North Wyke

Both giganteus and Athena continued to grow well, with Athena appearing healthier and greener than giganteus. Some Athena plants were flowering. The giganteus plot showed browning of leaves, particularly in the section treated with FYM mid-season, which otherwise demonstrated strong recovery. Phenotypic data collection is planned for early November.

Cockle Park

Miscanthus giganteus reached heights of six feet and above, with lower leaves beginning to senesce. No disease or pest damage was observed. Athena also grew well, with no hare or disease issues reported.

Hillsborough

The giganteus plot remained uniform and required no management. Athena looked good but was slightly shorter than giganteus, with some thistles noted around the perimeter. Grass in surrounding pathways was due for cutting. Variety trials showed mixed performance: the 2023 trial was healthy with paths maintained, while the 2024 trial continued to struggle, with poor establishment in many plots.

Headley Hall

Giganteus plots were taller and greener than Athena, though senescence was starting in lower leaves. Athena appeared paler and less vigorous. Both main plots were scheduled for senescence scoring in mid-October. The 2023 variety trial showed good growth but signs of seasonal decline, while the 2024 trial remained smaller and thinner.

Auchincruive

Both giganteus and Athena were healthy, with bottom leaves showing early senescence. Perimeter weeds were mowed earlier in the month.

Boghall

Senescence was close to starting in giganteus, while Athena remained green. Perimeter weeds were mowed on September 22nd. Variety trials reflected similar trends: the 2023 trial showed strong growth, while the 2024 trial continued to struggle with thin stands and weed pressure.

Aberystwyth

Giganteus demonstrated significant growth since August, though some areas remained smaller due to earlier drought stress. Athena was healthy and many plants were beginning to flower. No pest or disease issues were reported.

Chesham

Both varieties responded well to recent rainfall, with Athena showing superior drought resilience compared to giganteus. Earlier signs of water stress persisted but did not limit new growth. No major pest or disease problems were observed.

Spotlight on Willow

Willow crops across the Biomass Connect sites showed strong growth through September, with most plots maintaining good canopy cover and height. Seasonal senescence was beginning in some locations, particularly in older stands and variety trials, while pest activity varied by site. Rust symptoms were noted in several trials, and insect presence—especially willow beetles and aphids—was reported at some hubs. Weed pressure remained low overall, thanks to canopy closure and targeted perimeter management.

North Wyke

SRC willow continued to grow well, though some low-level senescence was observed in certain varieties. Rust scoring was completed, and biodiversity within the variety trial was notable, with abundant insect and bird activity. Weed burden persisted but was expected given site conditions. Perimeter mowing and strimming were carried out late in the month.

Cockle Park

Willow plots began to senesce, with leaf damage from sawfly and blackspot observed. Hare damage was also reported in the main trial. Electric fencing remained in place and was monitored regularly.

Hillsborough

Willow at Hillsborough maintained strong growth, reaching heights of 8–10 feet. No significant leaf loss was observed, and weeds were well controlled. Variety trials showed early signs of yellowing in some cultivars, such as Challenger, but no major pest or disease issues were reported.

Headley Hall

The 0.5 ha willow plot showed good height development over the season, though insect activity was noted, including wasps feeding on pests. Variety trials remained healthy, with no evidence of pest transfer from the main plot. Rust scoring was completed across all willow areas.

Auchincruive

Senescence was limited, with only slight yellowing on outer rows. Perimeter mowing was completed earlier in the month, and data collection was scheduled for late September. No major pest or disease issues were reported.

Boghall

Senescence had just started in the main willow plot, accompanied by high insect activity, including willow beetles, giant aphids, and wasps. Variety trials showed some ghosting and midribbing but remained generally healthy. Rust scoring was completed, and perimeter spraying was carried out to manage thistles and docks.

Aberystwyth

Some leaf drop was observed in willow plots, though no new insect damage occurred beyond earlier-season activity. Variety trials mirrored these trends, with minor senescence and no pest escalation.

Chesham

Willow maintained good vigour and canopy cover, with no signs of stress or yellowing. Pest pressure remained minimal, and foliage stayed green and healthy through the month.

Spotlight on Sida

Sida crops across the Biomass Connect sites showed mixed performance during September, reflecting differences in establishment and seasonal progression. Most plots were beginning to show signs of senescence, with yellowing and leaf loss becoming more apparent, particularly in older stands. Flowering was largely complete, though some late blooms persisted in certain sites. Weed pressure remained under control in most areas, thanks to mowing and targeted spraying, though some sites reported plans for further perimeter management.

North Wyke

Sida plants continued to grow but remained relatively small compared to other sites. Some yellowing of leaves was observed, especially at the base of the plants, and senescence was starting. A few flowers persisted, attracting pollinators such as bees.

Cockle Park

Flowering was ongoing, with some black-spotted leaves noted. Most plants were present and generally healthy.

Hillsborough

Flowering was largely over, and plants were yellowing from the bottom up. Average height was around 1.2 m, with the top half of the stand well established (approximately 90%) and the bottom half less so (around 20%). Weed control was relatively effective.

Headley Hall

Plots were looking well but starting to die back, with leaves and stems turning yellow and brown. Some black spots were noted on leaves, and photos were added to the shared drive.

Auchincruive

Sida remained mostly green, although some plants were lighter in colour. A few flowers persisted. Perimeter mowing was completed earlier in the month, and spraying was planned.

Boghall

Rhizome plants were still green, while plug plants were starting to lighten in colour. Some flowers remained on the latter.

Aberystwyth

Most plants had dropped a majority of their leaves, indicating advanced senescence. No signs of pest or disease were reported.

Chesham

Sida showed stress from earlier dry conditions, with significant leaf loss around the base of the plants. However, regrowth was evident, with new leaves emerging on lower stems.

Spotlight on Reed Canary Grass

Reed Canary Grass across the Biomass Connect sites showed steady progress through September, with most plots maintaining good ground cover and signs of seasonal senescence becoming more apparent. Management activities focused on mowing and spraying in preparation for autumn, and weed pressure remained generally low. Establishment varied slightly between sites, with some areas showing strong recovery and others planning reseeding for the next season.

North Wyke

The plot continued to establish fairly well, though some lodging was observed in the middle of the stand. Flowering was noted in several plants, indicating good development.

Cockle Park

Growth remained strong, with no signs of disease or pest damage. Plants appeared pale but otherwise healthy, and no hare or deer damage was reported.

Hillsborough

Bottom leaves were browning, and the grass showed signs of fading as senescence progressed. Significant seed heading was observed across the plot.

Headley Hall

The replanted area thickened up well and now matches the rest of the plot. Grass was starting to turn brown, showing clear signs of senescence.

Auchincruive

Plans were in place for re-spraying and mowing in early October to manage weeds and prepare for the next growth cycle.

Boghall

Similar to Auchincruive, re-spraying and mowing were scheduled for early October, with sowing planned for spring 2026.

Aberystwyth

Plants were beginning to senesce, with no signs of pest or disease. Overall, the plot remained healthy and well established.

Chesham

Stands were healthy and vigorous, with no issues reported. Weed control was effective, and the crop maintained good condition throughout the month.

Spotlight on Switchgrass

Switchgrass plots across the Biomass Connect sites showed varied progress during September, reflecting differences in establishment and site conditions. While some sites reported healthy, vigorous stands, others continued to struggle with slow growth or required further management interventions. Weed control remained a priority in less established areas, and plans for reseeding were noted at certain hubs.

North Wyke

The switchgrass area was mowed during September, with plans to spray off weeds using glyphosate before attempting re-establishment in spring 2026. Current growth remains limited.

Cockle Park

Switchgrass continued to grow slowly, with poor vigour and patchy coverage. No signs of pest or disease were observed, and hare damage was absent.

Headley Hall

Plots showed good thick growth across the area, with one plant observed flowering. Photos were added to the shared drive.

Auchincruive

Respray and mowing were scheduled for early October, with sowing planned for spring 2026.

Boghall

Similar to Auchincruive, respray and mowing were planned for early October, with sowing scheduled for spring 2026.

Aberystwyth

Switchgrass seedlings reached 15–20 cm and were growing above competing grasses, indicating steady progress in establishment.

Chesham

Switchgrass stands appeared healthy and well established, with no pest or disease issues reported. Growth was vigorous, and weeded areas remained clear.