News

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.

At the Boghall Demonstration Hub, crops are progressing into senescence, reflecting seasonal changes. Some varieties exhibit striking orange hues as they senesce. Overall, the site reflects a mix of senescence stages and biodiversity, with hare activity being a minor issue.

At the Auchincruive Demonstration Hub, crops have been showing natural seasonal transitions, with many entering senescence. Miscanthus giganteus remains thick and dense but is starting to brown from the bottom, while Miscanthus Athena™ has also begun senescing alongside the dying off of weeds. Eucalyptus trees remain robust and healthy, including recovery among previously droopy trees. Poplar and Willow exhibit varying stages of senescence, with some branches damaged by storm Ashley but no major structural issues. Alder is browning but holding onto its leaves, and Black Locust shows significant leaf drop. Birds have been observed among the Miscanthus and Willow, highlighting biodiversity benefits at the site.

At Cockle Park Farm, crops are progressing steadily. Overall health remains good, with no significant pest or disease issues reported. Maintenance activities, including regular fence monitoring and grass cutting, ensure a controlled environment for crop growth.

Crops at the North Wyke Biomass Connect Demonstration Hub have shown mixed performance through October.

Across the Biomass Connect demonstrator hubs, varieties are progressing well into the season. Most sites reported healthy growth for core species, with limited pest and disease activity overall.

Progress at the Boghall Biomass Connect site in September showcased healthy growth across all varieties, with regular interrow mowing conducted to support field maintenance. The SRF alder and poplar are growing well, despite some rust and insect presence, while Eucalyptus and black Locust generally show good health with minimal damage from pests. Miscanthus varieties are thriving with little disease or vertebrate impact, and although willow showed signs of aphid and beetle activity, it continues to grow robustly.